Description
Garlic Bread Pasta is a quick and flavorful Italian-American dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a crispy garlic butter breadcrumb topping. This easy stovetop recipe mimics the comforting taste of garlic bread, enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
Sauce and Toppings
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to prevent bitterness.
- Toast Breadcrumbs: Stir in the seasoned breadcrumbs and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden and crisp, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat it with the garlic butter and toasted breadcrumbs. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
- For a creamier variation, add a splash of cream or toss in some mozzarella cheese.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Be careful not to brown the garlic too much to avoid a bitter taste.
