Garlic Butter Parmesan Noodles (Print Version)

Rich garlic butter and Parmesan coat tender noodles for an easy vegetarian main ready in under 30 minutes.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
02 - Salt, for pasta water

→ Garlic Butter Sauce

03 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter
04 - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
05 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
06 - 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

→ Finishing

07 - 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
09 - Ground black pepper, to taste
10 - Extra Parmesan, for serving

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package directions. Prior to draining, carefully reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes at this stage if desired.
03 - Introduce the drained pasta to the skillet containing the garlic butter. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss gently to ensure every strand is coated evenly.
04 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Toss vigorously until the cheese has melted, creating a luscious, creamy coating. Season with ground black pepper to taste.
05 - Plate immediately, garnishing with additional grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, if preferred.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy pantry ingredients create a familiar and crowd-pleasing dinner
  • Ready in less than thirty minutes from start to finish
  • Customizable with add-ins or your favorite veggies and proteins
  • The sauce coats every noodle for true garlic and Parmesan goodness
02 -
  • Packed with protein and calcium from the Parmesan
  • Great option for quick vegetarian dinners or potlucks
  • Works well as a side or main course and pairs beautifully with salads
03 -
  • Always reserve some pasta water before draining every drop. The starch in that water transforms the sauce from thin to luscious
  • Chop the garlic as finely as possible for even cooking and no harsh bites throughout
  • If you want to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, toss them into the pot for the last minute of pasta cooking for perfectly tender results

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