Prepare to transform your ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance! This incredible Spaghetti with Brown Butter Brussels Sprouts is not just a meal, it's a magical fusion of nutty brown butter, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and perfectly cooked pasta that will have you craving seconds before you even finish your first bite. Whether you're a Brussels sprouts skeptic or a pasta enthusiast, this recipe is about to change everything you thought you knew about weeknight dinners.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, trim the ends of Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. Ensure they are clean and dry.
- In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking butter, swirling occasionally, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the brown butter and sauté for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut-side down. Cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until they develop a golden-brown caramelization.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the spaghetti directly to the skillet with Brussels sprouts and brown butter.
- Toss the pasta and Brussels sprouts together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Toss once more to ensure even distribution.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the rich, nutty flavors of brown butter and caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Tips
- Brown Butter Mastery: Watch your butter closely when browning. The difference between perfectly nutty brown butter and burnt butter is just seconds.
- Brussels Sprouts Technique: Cook them cut-side down to achieve maximum caramelization and develop a crispy, golden exterior.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water. Its starchy goodness helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to your spaghetti.
- Timing is Key: Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking to ensure smooth execution and prevent burning.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right from the skillet to preserve the butter's rich flavor and the sprouts' crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 80mg