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Creamy Pasta with Butter and Parmesan

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A simple and classic Italian comfort meal featuring creamy pasta made with butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, perfect for quick and satisfying dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (100 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, for pasta water and to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (120 ml) reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 4 quarts or 3.8 liters) to a rolling boil.
  2. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of spaghetti or fettuccine to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions for al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Reserve about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta cooking water before draining.
  4. Drain the pasta using a colander. Do not rinse.
  5. While pasta cooks, melt 6 tablespoons (85 grams) of unsalted butter in a large skillet over low heat, ensuring it does not brown.
  6. Add the hot pasta directly to the skillet with melted butter. Toss gently to coat every strand.
  7. Sprinkle 1 cup (100 grams) of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
  8. Add a splash of reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup or 60 ml, add more as needed) to help the cheese melt smoothly and create a creamy sauce.
  9. Continue tossing and mixing vigorously to emulsify the butter and cheese into a creamy sauce.
  10. Season with freshly ground black pepper and taste for salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  11. Serve immediately, optionally topped with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor. Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce. Do not overcook pasta; undercook slightly if unsure and finish cooking in the sauce. Adjust sauce thickness by adding more pasta water or cheese as needed. Butter should be melted but not browned to maintain flavor balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, butter pasta, Parmesan pasta, easy Italian recipe, comfort food, quick pasta recipe

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/creamy-pasta-with-butter-and-parmesan-recipe-easy-classic-italian-comfort-meal/