If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe is exactly what you need. The simple elegance of tender pasta coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, topped with nutty parmesan and fresh, vibrant parsley, makes it an irresistible comfort food that you can whip up in just 20 minutes. It’s a perfect go-to for those moments when you want something satisfying but straightforward, packed with flavor yet utterly cozy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating the magic of this Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the taste, texture, and color that make this dish so beloved.
- 8 ounces (225 g) dried pasta: Choose spaghetti, linguine, or any shape you love for that perfect bite and sauce cling.
- 4 tablespoons (52 g) unsalted butter, divided: Butter creates the luscious base of the sauce and adds richness without overpowering.
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced: Fresh garlic gives the dish its signature aroma and a mild punch that’s mellow when cooked gently.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and balances the creamy flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the final dish, bringing all flavors forward.
- ½ cup (43 g) grated parmesan: Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty layer that melts beautifully into the butter sauce.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Parsley brightens the dish with its fresh, herbal notes and gives it a lively pop of green color.
How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water to infuse the pasta with flavor as it cooks. Drop in your choice of pasta and cook it until it reaches that ideal tender-but-firm texture, known as al dente. Remember to save one cup of the starchy pasta water before draining, as it’s gold for creating a silky sauce later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is boiling, melt half of the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté it just until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be gentle here—overcooking garlic turns it bitter, so aim for a soft, aromatic base that will infuse the butter with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Immediately toss the hot pasta into the skillet with the garlic butter, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water. Using kitchen tongs, gently toss everything to coat the noodles evenly with a glossy, thick sauce. Add the remaining butter, continuing to toss until it melts completely. If the sauce feels too thick, a little more pasta water will loosen it up beautifully without diluting the flavor.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley. Toss continuously so every strand of pasta twirls in the creamy sauce, flecked with vibrant green and melting cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to make the flavors sing.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe by adding a few thoughtful garnishes. Extra parmesan shavings on top add a lovely salty finish, while a sprinkle of cracked black pepper gives a subtle kick. For a bit of texture, toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can transform this simple dish into something extraordinary.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with light sides that complement, not compete. Consider a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes that add a sweet, smoky dimension.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make this humble pasta feel extra special. Serve it twirled in nests on warm plates, sprinkled with vibrant parsley leaves, or even offer small bowls of parmesan and crushed red pepper on the side, letting everyone customize their bite. It’s perfect for both casual dinners and more festive occasions alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but a quick stir with a splash of water or broth revives its creamy texture beautifully.
Freezing
Because of the fresh parsley and butter sauce, freezing this pasta isn’t recommended—you’ll lose the fresh, vibrant qualities and the sauce might separate on reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often with a little bit of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the butter sauce separate and the parsley limp. Taking your time here keeps everything luscious and inviting.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well here, just be sure to cook it according to package instructions to achieve the right texture. The flavorful garlic butter sauce will complement any pasta type beautifully.
Is there a substitute for fresh parsley in the recipe?
If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, dried parsley can be used, but add it sparingly as its flavor is less vibrant. Fresh basil or chives can also offer a fresh herbal note, but parsley is preferred for the classic bright touch.
How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
To veganize this Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe, use a plant-based butter and substitute the parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The garlic butter sauce still delivers comforting richness without dairy.
What’s the secret to getting the sauce perfectly creamy?
The reserved pasta water is the magic here. Its starchiness helps emulsify the butter and cheese into a glossy, creamy coating that clings to each strand of pasta—don’t skip this step!
Can I add protein to make this a heartier meal?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta complement the buttery, garlicky flavors wonderfully and turn this simple pasta into a fulfilling main course.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delightful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends with minimal fuss, this recipe shines with its buttery richness, fresh herbal brightness, and that perfect cheesy finish. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite in your recipe collection.
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Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Butter Pasta recipe features perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a rich and aromatic butter garlic sauce, complemented by freshly grated parmesan cheese and vibrant parsley. Easy to make and incredibly comforting, it’s a quick pasta dish that highlights simple ingredients for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225 g) dried pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or any other long or short pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Butter Garlic Sauce
- 4 tablespoons (52 g) unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
Toppings
- ½ cup (43 g) grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a medium-sized saucepot, bring water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté garlic in butter: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté very lightly until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the hot drained pasta to the skillet along with some reserved pasta water. Toss using kitchen tongs to create a thick, glossy sauce that coats the noodles. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and continue tossing until melted. Add more pasta water as needed for desired sauce consistency.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Add freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing continuously to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve warm with extra parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
- Don’t overcook the garlic; lightly sautéing enhances flavor without bitterness.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Parsley adds freshness, but you can substitute with basil or omit if preferred.
- This recipe works well with any short or long pasta variety.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
