Quick Garlic Brown Butter Pasta Recipe with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs Made Easy
A quick and easy pasta dish featuring nutty brown butter, fresh garlic, parmesan cheese, and bright herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting meal that feels special.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti or linguine
- 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup (about 75 grams) freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)
- Reserved pasta cooking water (about 1 cup)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-9 minutes). Before draining, scoop out 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta cooking water and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, melt 6 tablespoons (85 grams) of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Reduce heat to low and add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the brown butter and garlic. Toss well to coat.
- Sprinkle in ¾ cup (75 grams) freshly grated parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, and 1 tablespoon chopped chives. Toss again, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time to loosen and create a silky sauce that coats every strand.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Add optional lemon zest and toss one final time.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Watch the butter carefully as it can burn quickly; it should be golden brown with a nutty aroma. Add garlic after butter browns and cook gently to avoid bitterness. Gradually add pasta water to create a smooth, clingy sauce. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta; for dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about hal
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 19
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 18
Keywords: garlic brown butter pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy pasta, parmesan pasta, fresh herbs pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food