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Classic Garlic Buttered Spaghetti

A close-up of perfectly coated buttered spaghetti, glistening under natural light on a white plate.
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Make this simple, comforting spaghetti using butter and garlic. It is a quick weeknight pasta that relies on minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  4. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir constantly until the butter and water emulsify slightly, creating a thin sauce.
  5. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the garlic butter sauce.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. If the sauce seems too dry, add another splash of reserved pasta water until the pasta is coated nicely.
  7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if using.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, brown the butter slightly before adding the garlic. Cook the butter until it smells nutty and turns a light amber color.
  • This recipe works well with any long pasta shape, not just spaghetti.
  • If you want a creamier butter sauce for pasta, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream along with the pasta water.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/buttered-spaghetti-quick-simple-comfort-recipe/