Simple and Delicious Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic butter pasta is a classic dish that has been cherished by food enthusiasts around the world for its simplicity and rich flavors. This versatile recipe can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Let’s dive into how you can create this creamy and aromatic pasta dish at home.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of penne pasta (or any short pasta of your choice)
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced finely
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in the softened butter, salt, black pepper, and reserved pasta cooking water. The mixture will begin to thicken into a creamy sauce.
4. Return the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Transfer the garlic butter pasta to serving plates, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli.
• For added texture, you can mix in some cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein and flavor complexity.
• Garnish with additional fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese to enhance the presentation of your meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: The nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate breakdown, please refer to an online nutrition calculator or consult with a registered dietitian.

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Total Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 70g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 25g

Tips and Variations

• To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use vegan alternatives like nutritional yeast.
• For a healthier option, you can reduce the butter amount by half and use extra virgin olive oil instead. You could also add more vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost your intake of vitamins and minerals.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Garlic butter pasta is not just about the rich flavors; it’s also about bringing people together. Whether you’re serving this as part of your family dinner menu, hosting a potluck at work, or simply enjoying a homemade meal for yourself, garlic butter pasta guarantees satisfaction and joy.

With its quick preparation time and adaptable nature, garlic butter pasta has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among many. So why not try this dish today? It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes in your kitchen repertoire!

Serving Size

This recipe serves 4 people.

Cooking Time

The total cooking time for garlic butter pasta is approximately 30 minutes, including the al dente pasta cooking phase and the sauce preparation.