Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with this mouthwatering Spaghetti with Garlic Butter and Cheese! In just 20 minutes, you'll create a dish so irresistibly creamy and aromatic that your family will think a professional chef has taken over your kitchen. Imagine twirling perfectly coated pasta strands infused with rich, golden garlic butter and sprinkled with luxurious Parmesan – this recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti. Drain the pasta in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Transfer the hot spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss the pasta to coat evenly, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to create a smooth sauce.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, continuing to toss until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the spaghetti to serving plates. Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, offering additional Parmesan cheese at the table for guests who want extra.
Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the most vibrant flavor – pre-minced garlic from a jar won't deliver the same punch.
- Keep your pasta water! The starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce and helps the cheese and butter adhere to the noodles.
- Cook your pasta just until al dente – it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot garlic butter.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese and grate it fresh for the best melting and flavor.
- Don't let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter. Sauté gently on medium-low heat.
- Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the most luxurious texture and maximum flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 642kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 79mg
