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To make the best garlic butter pasta, you need a few key ingredients. You will need 8 oz of spaghetti or fettuccine. Six tablespoons of unsalted butter bring rich flavor. You also need four cloves of minced garlic. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess, while fresh parsley gives a pop of color. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and the juice of one lemon. Optionally, you can use lemon zest for added zing.

Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Savor the simplicity and richness of garlic butter pasta with this easy recipe! Perfect for any meal, this dish combines al dente pasta with a buttery garlic sauce, topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Learn how to customize with veggies or proteins like shrimp for an extra boost.Click through to get started!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Juice of 1 lemon

Optional: Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest.

    Prepare Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

      Add Heat: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir for an additional 30 seconds.

        Combine Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired creaminess.

          Flavor Boost: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until the cheese has melted and the pasta is well coated.

            Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and fold in the chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

              Enjoy: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4