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Savory Brown Butter Garlic Pasta with Parmesan

brown butter garlic pasta - featured image

A quick and easy pasta dish featuring nutty brown butter, fragrant garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti or linguine
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter
  • 4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup (75 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a generous pinch
  • Salt, for pasta water and seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil (about 8-10 minutes).
  2. Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta cooking water before draining.
  3. While pasta cooks, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently as the butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat once browned with brown flecks.
  4. Immediately add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves to the browned butter. Return pan to low heat and cook garlic gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned.
  5. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with the brown butter garlic sauce. Toss well with tongs or pasta fork to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if pasta seems dry, until sauce is silky and smooth.
  6. Sprinkle 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese over pasta and toss again until melted and incorporated. Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.
  7. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a touch of lemon zest. Serve immediately.

Notes

Watch the butter closely while browning to avoid burning; stir constantly. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Optional garnishes like parsley and lemon zest add freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter pasta, garlic pasta, Parmesan pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food