Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (16 oz) Spaghetti (any brand)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter
- 4–6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Reserved Pasta Water
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches “al dente” texture. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Before you drain the pasta, carefully scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the rest of the pasta in a colander. - Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Butter
While the pasta drains, place the same pot or a large skillet over medium heat. Add the stick of butter and let it melt until it starts to foam. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. You want the garlic to be fragrant and golden, not brown or bitter. - Step 3: Toss and Combine
Add the cooked spaghetti back into the pot with the garlic butter. Pour in the reserved pasta water and half of the parmesan cheese. Use tongs to toss everything together vigorously. The starch in the water and the cheese will emulsify with the butter to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan and parsley on top before serving hot.
- Cook Time: 15 minutes