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A quick and easy pasta dish featuring noodles coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce and finished with Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a comforting main course or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces dried pasta noodles (long or short)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Before draining, reserve about 3/4 cup of the pasta cooking water.
  4. Drain the noodles and do not rinse them.
  5. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
  6. Add minced garlic and sauté gently over low heat, stirring often, until soft and fragrant (do not brown).
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
  8. Stir in the grated Parmesan so it begins to melt.
  9. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time, tossing until the noodles are glossy and the sauce coats them.
  10. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing to combine.

Notes

Do not rinse pasta after draining to help the sauce adhere better., Sauté garlic over low heat to avoid burning and bitterness., Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days., Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth and additional butter if needed., Dish is dairy-light without cream or milk., Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta., Add proteins like chicken, sausage, or tofu for heartier meals., Pair with veggies like broccoli, green beans, or spinach., Enhance flavor with soy sauce or red pepper flakes.

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