Easy Garlic Butter Pasta

Cooking a delicious pasta dish doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. One popular recipe that is both quick and satisfying is Easy Garlic Butter Pasta. This simple yet flavorful meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, yielding enough for four servings.

Garlic butter pasta provides the perfect balance of savory flavors without overpowering other ingredients. It's a great choice for those looking to whip up something delicious during a busy weeknight or as part of your weekend meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

To make Easy Garlic Butter Pasta, start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta once it reaches this stage; set aside.

1. Mince fresh garlic cloves and finely chop some parsley for garnish if desired.
2. In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
4. Pour the hot melted butter over your drained pasta. Toss well ensuring all strands of pasta are generously coated in the garlicky mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if using, then serve immediately while still warm.

Nutritional Information per Serving (Approximate)

This dish contains approximately 450 calories per serving. The nutritional values may vary based on the size of your portion and any additional ingredients added.

Health Benefits

Garlic has numerous health benefits, including supporting heart health by reducing cholesterol levels. Consuming garlic regularly can also boost immunity due to its high sulfur content. Additionally, eating foods rich in vitamin B6 found within this pasta dish helps improve mental health and brain function.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter is hot when you add it to your pasta; otherwise, the garlic will burn easily leading to an unpleasant taste.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding heavy cream instead of water while cooking the pasta. This technique ensures that each strand gets fully coated with the rich garlicky sauce.
• For added flavor, top your dish with crispy bacon or roasted vegetables like broccoli florets.

Variations and Alternatives

This versatile recipe offers numerous variations:

• Add chicken: Include diced cooked chicken to transform it into a Chicken Garlic Butter Pasta. This version is perfect for dinner parties where you want something hearty yet easy.
• Incorporate veggies: Stir in finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients and color. These additions can turn this simple meal into a complete dish.

Cooking Time and Servings Summary

The entire cooking process should take around 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing ample time even on the busiest days of your week. It yields approximately four generous servings making it perfect for families or groups sharing.

Conclusion

Easy Garlic Butter Pasta is more than just a go-to dinner choice—it’s an essential addition to any pantry. Its simplicity allows for endless customization options, ensuring there's always something new and exciting every time you prepare it. Whether you're looking for comfort food or trying to impress guests, this recipe promises satisfaction every single bite.