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Garlic Parmesan buttered noodles with parsley in an earthenware bowl

Garlic Parmesan Buttered Noodles

Tender noodles tossed in garlic butter and Parmesan with a splash of pasta water for a silky sauce. A 20-minute pantry dinner or side dish.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces spaghetti or egg noodles
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • ½ teaspoon salt plus more for the pasta water
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
  2. Scoop out ½ cup of the pasta water and set it aside, then drain the pasta.
  3. Return the empty pot to medium-low heat and melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the pasta, Parmesan and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce is glossy and coats the noodles. Add more pasta water a splash at a time if it looks dry.
  5. Season with the salt and pepper, sprinkle with parsley and serve with extra Parmesan.

Notes

  • Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic.
  • Grated Parmesan from the shaker can works. Freshly grated melts more smoothly.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Any pasta shape works. Follow the cooking time on the box.