Description
Garlic Bread Pasta is a deliciously simple Italian-American dish that combines the comforting flavors of garlic, butter, and crispy breadcrumbs with al dente pasta. This recipe transforms basic pantry staples into a flavorful main course that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Melt Butter and Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil, combining their rich flavors as the base of the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, releasing its delicious aroma into the butter and oil mixture.
- Toast Breadcrumbs: Stir in the seasoned breadcrumbs and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden and crispy, imparting a delightful texture to the dish.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles in the garlic butter and breadcrumb mixture.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling smoothly to the pasta.
- Add Parsley and Parmesan: Stir in the parsley and grated Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor and add a fresh, cheesy finish.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese if desired for garnish.
Notes
- You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream or a handful of mozzarella cheese.
- This pasta pairs excellently with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes to add variety.
