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Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Ultimate Recipe

This Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal that's packed with flavor. It combines simple ingredients like spaghetti, garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese to create a comforting and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Perfect as a base, it can easily be customized with added protein or vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped optional
  • Red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • colander
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Garlic press or knife
  • Cheese grater
  • whisk
  • Tongs or pasta fork

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, mince the garlic.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  5. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Add the butter to the skillet with the garlic and let it melt completely. Reduce the heat to low.
  7. Slowly whisk in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth and emulsified.
  8. Drain the pasta, reserving the remaining pasta water.
  9. Add the pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed to create a creamy consistency.
  10. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat the pasta, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed.
  11. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  12. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Add extra Parmesan cheese for serving.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Al dente pasta is crucial for texture. Don't burn the garlic, sauté it over low heat. Emulsify the sauce properly by adding pasta water slowly and whisking constantly. Serve immediately. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a complete meal. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream.