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Garlic Butter Pasta

A deliciously simple garlic butter pasta that's quick to prepare, comforting, and family-approved.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 8 oz Pasta (your choice) Spaghetti or fettuccine are popular choices.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves Fresh garlic, minced Always use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil (optional) Add for extra flavor if desired.
  • to taste Salt Season to your liking.
  • to taste Pepper Season to your liking.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
  2. Cook until al dente, then reserve about a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. If you're opting to use olive oil, add it here.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing well with the garlic butter mixture.
  2. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss in your fresh herbs, mixing until well combined.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Leftover garlic butter pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of water or more butter. For freezing, do so without fresh herbs and cheese, storing in an airtight container for up to three months.