If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, let me introduce you to my Garlic Parmesan Pasta! This dish is a total winner when it comes to simplicity and flavor. Just imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a luscious buttery garlic sauce, with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese melting into the mix. It’s rich, it’s comforting, and it takes only about 25 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something cozy at home. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients on hand already. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Making this Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a breeze, and I promise you’ll adore how quickly it comes together! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. Ready? Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for that extra flavor! It usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, drain it well and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of the pasta water—just in case!
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. This is where the magic begins!
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—yikes!
- Next, toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, ensuring every strand gets coated with that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until it melts and creates a creamy coating over the pasta. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season with salt to taste, and give it one last toss.
- Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Pasta!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Made with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Perfectly comforting for any night of the week.
- Customizable—add your favorite proteins or veggies!
- Great for both family dinners and casual gatherings.
Tips for Success
To really elevate your Garlic Parmesan Pasta, here are a few pro tips that I swear by! First, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese—it just melts so much better and has a richer flavor compared to the pre-grated stuff. Also, be sure to sauté the garlic gently; you want that lovely aroma without the bitter taste of burnt garlic. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat! And remember, don’t shy away from reserving that pasta water; it’s a magic ingredient that helps create a silky sauce. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the estimated nutritional data for this Garlic Parmesan Pasta! Each serving is approximately 400 calories, with about 20g of fat and 12g of protein. You’ll also be getting around 40g of carbohydrates to fuel your day. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect. It’s a satisfying dish that strikes a nice balance without being overly heavy—perfect for a cozy meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love using spaghetti for this Garlic Parmesan Pasta, you can swap it out for any pasta you prefer. Fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options work beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking times since they can vary a bit.
Can I add protein to this dish?
You bet! This dish is super versatile. If you want to add some protein, cooked chicken or shrimp are fantastic options. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding your garlic, or toss them in at the end to warm through. It’ll take your pasta to the next level!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta (which is rare, trust me), simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to bring back that saucy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Pasta, there are some delightful sides that can elevate your meal even further! I love pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette—something zesty to complement the richness of the pasta. A warm, crusty garlic bread is also a fantastic addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you want to add some veggies, sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus make for a vibrant and nutritious side. Trust me, these pairings will make your dinner feel even more special!
Garlic Parmesan Pasta: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that combines garlic, butter, and cheese for a rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: garlic, parmesan, pasta, easy recipe, Italian dish
