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My Quick Garlicky Parmesan Pasta
When I'm short on time but need something tasty, this pasta never fails me. These buttery Parmesan garlic noodles have become what I turn to when the clock's ticking but I want good food on the table. The mix of toasted garlic in butter plus melted Parmesan makes this amazing sauce that wraps around every bit of pasta just right.
A Basic Dish That Brings Our Family Together
My kid begs for these noodles nearly every single week. I used to cook Malaysian food with tons of heat and spices, but having a child totally switched up my cooking approach. These might just be simple garlic noodles, but seeing my 4-year-old smile when they smell them cooking makes them pretty special to me.
What You'll Need
- Spaghetti: Make it al dente for the best bite.
- Butter: Gives the sauce its creaminess.
- Olive Oil: Stops the butter from burning and boosts flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced cloves make a fragrant foundation.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Creates that smooth, cheesy coating.
- Salt: Add to your liking to bring out flavors.
- Grated Cheddar Cheese: You can add this for extra cheese if you want.
- Parsley: Adds bright color and fresh taste.
Cooking Steps
- Prepare the Pasta
- Get your spaghetti cooking in boiling water until it's al dente. Drain it and put it aside.
- Brown the Garlic
- Put butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Throw in your minced garlic and cook until it's golden and smells amazing.
- Mix Everything
- Drop your cooked spaghetti into the pan. Mix it around so all the noodles get coated in that garlic butter mix. Add salt to make the flavors pop.
- Finish with Cheese
- Turn the heat off and mix in your Parmesan until it's all melty and mixed in. Top with some Cheddar and parsley before you serve it.
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Perfect Pairings
This pasta goes great with so many things. Yesterday I put it next to my ginger garlic chicken and everyone ate every last bit. Sometimes I'll throw in some oven-roasted broccoli or quickly cooked spinach right with the pasta. And don't toss the leftovers - they make for an awesome lunch tomorrow.
A Truly Comforting Meal
What makes this dish so good is how basic it is. Just a handful of normal ingredients turn into something really comforting. The garlic gets all golden brown, the Parmesan turns into this smooth sauce, and dinner's suddenly done. My house always smells incredible when I cook this, and honestly, that alone makes me want to make it time and time again.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I switch up the pasta shape?
Absolutely! Use whatever pasta you have—think penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Boil until firm to bite, then coat it well with the sauce.
- → What's the best way to save leftovers?
Pop leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Add a drizzle of olive oil when warming it up to keep the sauce smooth and moist.
- → Is it okay to prep parts early?
It's best served freshly made. But boiling the pasta ahead and tossing it with oil works fine. Just whip up the sauce right before eating.
- → Why do two cheeses make a difference?
The mix of sharp cheddar on top and creamy parmesan in the sauce gives it a deep, rich taste. They balance each other out perfectly.
- → Are there extra ingredients I can toss in?
Turn up the spice with crushed peppers, try oyster sauce for a twist, or sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil to level it up.