Ingredients
Scale
- 400g (14 oz) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add red pepper flakes and a splash of olive oil to enhance flavor.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Mix well to coat all strands. Gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and parsley topping. For added protein, stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables.
Notes
- If desired, add cooked protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and vibrant appearance.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
- Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg