Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Elevate your dinner with this quick and easy garlic butter pasta recipe that's bursting with flavor! Perfect for busy nights, this dish uses simple ingredients like spaghetti, fresh garlic, and rich butter to create a delightful meal. Explore fun variations and tips to make it uniquely yours. Get ready to impress your family and friends. Click to discover the full recipe and start your culinary adventure today!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) spaghetti or fettuccine

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

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

Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Next, add the baby spinach, cooking until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it well with the garlic butter and veggies. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water until the desired consistency is reached.

Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss to combine well.

Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.

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