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This 4-ingredient butter spaghetti is my favorite easy pasta recipe. It’s great for busy weeknights when I want comfort food fast.
I can make this tasty meal in just 20 minutes. It serves 8 people. You only need pasta, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
This recipe is easy and always makes me happy. I can change the pasta shape and add extras to match my mood. It’s perfect for family dinners or when I have friends over.
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
This butter spaghetti recipe will soon be your top pick! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a quick, tasty meal.
The recipe uses just four easy-to-find items. It’s a quick fix, ready in 20 minutes from start to finish.
This dish is super versatile. You can change the pasta type or add veggies for more nutrition. It suits everyone, from picky eaters to food lovers.
When you need a comforting meal, this creamy pasta is the answer. The butter sauce makes every bite luxurious and delicious.
It’s also very affordable. This recipe is great for feeding a crowd or saving money on groceries.
- Simple ingredients (just four!)
- Time-saving (ready in 20 minutes)
- Versatile (customize to your liking)
- Comforting (creamy and satisfying)
- Budget-friendly (wallet-approved)
Get ready to fall in love with this easy, delicious butter spaghetti recipe!
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
I love the simplicity of this recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 16 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 8 tablespoons butter
- 10 cubes frozen crushed garlic (or 4 tablespoons fresh crushed garlic)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Don’t worry if you’re missing an ingredient! I’ve got some great substitutes for you. For pasta types, any shape works well. I’ve used penne and bowties with great results.
When it comes to garlic options, fresh cloves are a perfect replacement for frozen cubes.
For cheese variations, try pecorino romano or asiago for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for butter alternatives, olive oil or plant-based butter can create a delicious dairy-free version. Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor!
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and make this recipe your own!
Instructions
I start by cooking pasta in a big pot of salted water. While it cooks, I get the sauce ready. I melt butter in a skillet over low heat and add minced garlic. I cook it until it smells great.
When the pasta is done, I keep some pasta water aside before draining. This water helps make the sauce smooth. Then, I mix the cooked pasta with the garlic butter in the skillet.
Next, I add grated Parmesan cheese and stir well. As the cheese melts, I slowly add the saved pasta water. This makes a creamy sauce that sticks to the pasta. I season with salt and pepper for more flavor.
- Cook pasta until al dente
- Melt butter and sauté garlic
- Toss pasta with garlic butter
- Add Parmesan and pasta water
- Season to taste
I serve my butter spaghetti right away. I add extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if I want. This makes a simple yet rich dish that always hits the spot.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I love cooking al dente pasta for this recipe. It keeps the spaghetti from turning mushy. This gives the dish a perfect texture.
When garlic cooking, I keep the heat low. This prevents burning. It lets the flavors develop slowly.
Getting the right sauce consistency is key. I add pasta water bit by bit until it’s just right. Don’t rinse your pasta after cooking! The starch helps the sauce stick better.
Got leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in your fridge. They’ll stay good for 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to bring the sauce back to life. You can use the stovetop or microwave.
- Cook pasta al dente for best texture
- Sauté garlic on low heat
- Add pasta water gradually for perfect sauce consistency
- Don’t rinse pasta after cooking
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days
This dish tastes best fresh, so I don’t recommend freezing it. The texture just isn’t the same after thawing. With these tips, you’ll nail this simple yet delicious butter spaghetti every time!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
This butter spaghetti recipe is so versatile! I like to add peas, broccoli, or spinach for a veggie boost. When I want more protein, I top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
I also like to change the cheese to Romano or Pecorino for a new taste. To make it even better, I add fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme. These herbs bring a burst of flavor and smell.
For sides, I choose a crisp green salad or steamed veggies. It goes well with grilled meats or fish too. Sometimes, I add charred corn or fresh tomatoes for a light meal.
For a spicy touch, I sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Or, I grate lemon zest over the pasta for a bright taste. There are so many ways to enjoy this simple yet tasty dish!