Garlic Butter Parmesan Noodles (Print Version)

Noodles tossed in garlic butter, Parmesan, and herbs. Simple, comforting, and quick for any meal.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 350 grams (12 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine

→ Sauce

02 - 60 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
03 - 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
04 - 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
05 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - 0.5 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water

→ Finishing

07 - 80 grams (3/4 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
09 - Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
10 - Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve approximately 240 ml (1 cup) of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta thoroughly.
02 - Concurrently, in a large skillet set over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it does not brown.
03 - Incorporate the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), freshly ground black pepper, and salt into the skillet.
04 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Gradually stir in small amounts of the reserved pasta water as needed to emulsify and achieve a glossy sauce that clings to the noodles.
05 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, tossing vigorously until the cheese is melted and the noodles are well-coated and glossy. If desired, incorporate the lemon zest for an added layer of brightness.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand
  • Ready in under half an hour
  • Versatile enough for a main or a quick side with roasted veggies or protein
  • Satisfyingly rich but not heavy
02 -
  • A one-pot wonder if you add greens like spinach straight to the pan
  • Vegetarian but incredibly satisfying for everyone
  • Customizable for kids and spice-lovers alike
  • The Parmesan here is the star I still remember the first time I let my kids grate their own and how proud they were to taste each bite Maybe it is nostalgia but I always reach for the good wedge and grate it fresh because it truly makes the noodles shine
03 -
  • Always save your pasta water It is the secret to a silky sauce and brings everything together
  • Let the garlic go just golden not brown Bitterness comes fast
  • Grate your cheese right before tossing in It melts smoother and tastes brighter

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