Simple yet Delicious Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick, simple, and delicious pasta recipe that you can whip up in no time? Garlic butter pasta is the perfect choice if you're looking to enjoy some Italian-inspired flavors without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. This versatile dish can be made with minimal effort and ingredients, offering a satisfying meal that’s both budget-friendly and full of flavor.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) penne pasta or any preferred noodle type
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

To start the process of making your Garlic Butter Pasta, first bring a large pot filled with water to a boil. Salt the boiling water generously as this will enhance the flavor of your pasta. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta and follow the cooking time mentioned on the packaging. Typically, al dente pasta takes about 8-10 minutes.

While the pasta cooks, prepare your sauce by heating up olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, toss in minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step ensures that the flavor of garlic is well-integrated into the dish without burning it. After mincing the garlic and adding to the pan, you should only need about 2-3 minutes for this to happen.

Once your pasta is cooked al dente, drain it thoroughly but reserve a small amount (about half a cup) of the cooking water. This liquid can be used later in the recipe to help thicken and emulsify the sauce with the pasta. Drain the pasta well before adding it back into the pot containing the sautéed garlic.

Immediately add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with your reserved pasta cooking water, stirring continuously until everything is well combined. The combination should create a creamy, rich sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta strands. At this point, you can season your dish according to personal preference by adding salt and pepper.

If desired, add some fresh chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness and color. Serve immediately with additional grated Parmesan on top if preferred. This recipe can also be paired perfectly with a side salad or a loaf of garlic bread for an even more complete meal!

Tips & Variations:

1. For a creamier texture, you could add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce while it's still cooking.
2. To make this dish healthier or lower in fat, use less olive oil and substitute some of the pasta for whole-grain versions.
3. If you prefer something different from parmesan cheese, try using mozzarella, fontina, or even a mix of cheeses!

Garlic butter pasta is incredibly easy to customize based on what ingredients you already have at home. Feel free to experiment with various herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. From simple weeknight dinners to casual Sunday brunches, this versatile recipe provides endless possibilities for culinary creativity.

Nutritional Information:

(Per Serving)

• Calories: 560 kcal
• Total Fat: 43g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 72g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 18g

Garlic butter pasta is not only a delightful culinary experience but also packed with nutrients. The combination of whole grains from the penne, healthy fats from olive oil and cheese, along with protein-rich pasta makes for an all-around satisfying meal that benefits your health.

Conclusion:

Garlic Butter Pasta has become one of those go-to recipes because it satisfies a wide range of palates. Whether you're looking for something quick during busy weeknights or want to impress guests with simple yet impressive cuisine, this dish offers flexibility and deliciousness in every bite.