This Butter Parmesan Pasta is a warm, cheesy hug for your taste buds. It comes together quickly with just pasta, butter, and grated Parmesan. Simple, yet oh-so-tasty!
Cooking it is a breeze! I love to sprinkle extra cheese on top—who can resist? Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got a perfect meal for any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using cavatappi or elbow macaroni to catch all that buttery goodness. If you want a different texture, try spaghetti or fettuccine. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your dish. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe. I personally love the richness unsalted butter adds!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for that creamy texture. In a pinch, you could use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or even a store-bought grated cheese blend. Just remember, quality cheese makes a difference!
Fresh Parsley: This adds color and a fresh flavor. You can easily swap it with basil or even spinach for something different. Dried herbs could work, but fresh is always best for vibrant taste.
What’s the Best Way to Create a Creamy Sauce?
Getting that perfect creamy sauce is all about technique. Here’s what to do:
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It helps to create a silky sauce when added to the cheese.
- Once you add the Parmesan, stir continuously as the cheese melts. This helps it combine with the butter and create that creaminess.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Keep in mind, the pasta should be hot when you mix everything so the cheese melts perfectly. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Butter Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces pasta (preferably cavatappi, elbow macaroni, or your choice)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1 garlic clove, minced (for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Butter Parmesan Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s super quick and perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting dish in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta to the boiling water and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining it in a colander.
2. Melt the Butter:
In the same pot or a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. If you’re using garlic for added flavor, toss it in now and sauté for about 1 minute. You want the garlic fragrant but not browned to avoid any bitter taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Butter:
Once the butter is melted, return the drained pasta to the pot or skillet. Toss it all together to make sure the pasta is evenly coated with that delicious buttery goodness.
4. Add Parmesan and Water:
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and begin adding some of the reserved pasta water, a little bit at a time. Toss the pasta continuously until the cheese starts to melt, forming a creamy sauce that coats the pasta. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
5. Season It Up:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go to ensure it’s seasoned just right for your palate.
6. Stir in Fresh Parsley:
Gently fold in the chopped parsley, which adds a nice pop of color and freshness to the dish. Give everything a final toss to combine well.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Butter Parmesan Pasta immediately while it’s hot! For an extra touch, you can garnish it with more Parmesan, extra black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Enjoy this creamy, comforting treat!
Dig in and relish the deliciousness of your simple Butter Parmesan Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi and elbow macaroni are great choices, feel free to swap in any pasta you have on hand, like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta!
How Do I Store Leftover Butter Parmesan Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses butter and cheese for flavor. If you’re looking to make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor!
What Can I Add for More Protein?
To boost protein, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Just cook them separately and toss them in when you combine the pasta with the sauce for a nutritious, hearty meal.
