Butter Pasta Recipe

Introduction

About this Recipe

This butter pasta recipe is a comforting and incredibly easy dish to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a quick, satisfying meal. With its simple ingredients, this recipe showcases the magic of combining butter and pasta into a rich and silky dish that is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love It

With minimal ingredients and a short preparation time, this butter pasta recipe is a go-to for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The flavor is rich yet subtle, making it versatile enough to accompany a variety of side dishes or proteins.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Ingredients You’ll Need

– 12 ounces of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine
– 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 to 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Optional chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to adjust the salt level to your preference. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and savory element, but it can be omitted for a simpler dish.

Prep Time

How to Get Ready

Preparing the butter pasta requires minimal effort. Start by gathering all ingredients, making sure everything is measured and ready to go. Grate your Parmesan cheese ahead of time for an easy assembly.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking and Serving Details

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

This butter pasta recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. In less than 15 minutes, you’ll have a ready-to-serve dish that tastes indulgent and satisfying, with serving sizes suitable for a small family or group of friends.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Generally, use 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4-5 quarts of water.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the cooked pasta. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted and starting to foam slightly.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as this could make the sauce bitter.
3. Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting based on personal preference.

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
2. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce, ensuring every strand is covered.
3. Gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help it adhere better to the pasta.

Step 4: Serve the Pasta

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or other toppings of your choice.
3. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Note About Pasta Types

This recipe works well with most types of pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Feel free to use your favorite pasta variety.

Note About Pasta Water

The reserved pasta water contains starch and helps to create a smooth, silky sauce when combined with the butter and garlic. Use it sparingly to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Note About Garlic

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Minced garlic cloves will provide a stronger and fresher taste compared to pre-minced or jarred substitutes.

Optional Variations

1. Add a protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
2. For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
3. Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.

Note About Leftovers

Store leftover butter pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Recommended Serving Suggestions

This butter pasta is versatile and pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Cook Techniques

How to Cook Pasta

Boil a large pot of water, add salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Making the Butter Sauce

Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until the butter is completely melted and foamy.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the butter sauce. Toss to combine. Add the reserved pasta water as needed to create a saucier consistency.

Adding Cheese

Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts into the pasta evenly. Adjust the amount based on your desired flavor.

Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or sprinkle freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.

Serving the Pasta

Serve immediately to enjoy the rich and creamy texture.

FAQ

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter. Just be mindful of adjusting the salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Any type of pasta works well, but long pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great options.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta.

Why should I reserve pasta water?

Pasta water contains starch that helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a creamier consistency.

Can I add additional ingredients to this recipe?

Yes, you can add cooked vegetables, protein, or herbs like parsley for extra flavor and texture.

Can I reheat butter pasta?

Yes, you can reheat it, but the sauce may dry out a bit. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This butter pasta recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the magic of combining buttery richness with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s versatile, quick, and a sure way to satisfy your cravings with just a few ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or pair it with other proteins or side dishes, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta

Add garlic and heavy cream to make a creamy and indulgent version of this dish. Perfect for comfort food lovers.

Butter Pasta with Shrimp

Add cooked shrimp for a seafood twist that complements the buttery flavor of this dish.

Butter Pasta with Spinach

Toss in sautéed spinach for a fresher and nutrient-packed variation of the recipe.

Butter Pasta with Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pair your butter pasta with crispy parmesan crusted chicken for a hearty and fulfilling meal.

Butter Pasta with Mushrooms

Add sautéed mushrooms to the pasta for an earthy and aromatic combination.

Butter Pasta with Red Pepper Flakes

Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a simple but fiery kick.