This Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just butter, parmesan cheese, and pasta, it’s super simple and oh-so-delicious!
I mean, who can resist a creamy, cheesy bowl of pasta, right? It’s like a warm hug on your plate! 😄 I love adding a sprinkle of herbs on top for some extra flavor.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but feel free to use any small pasta you prefer, like shells or fusilli. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options available in most stores.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of the dish, but salted butter is fine if that’s what you have. You can also substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you want a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Heavy Cream or Milk: If you’re looking to lighten things up, whole milk works well. You can also use plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, but be mindful of the flavor differences.
Garlic: While optional, minced garlic adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder will do—just use a pinch.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce is key to making this pasta special. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to melt the butter, which helps prevent it from burning.
- If using garlic, sauté it for only about a minute to keep it from getting bitter.
- When you add heavy cream or milk, stir it well into the melted butter to combine smoothly.
- Add Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly. This will help it melt evenly and create a nice, creamy coat on the pasta.
- If your sauce seems too thick, slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired creaminess.
Delicious Butter Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or small pasta of your choice
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional for a creamier texture)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Optional: cherry tomato for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll have a lovely, creamy Butter Parmesan Pasta ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it!
2. Drain and Set Aside:
After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will keep it safe while you’re making the sauce!
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same pot you used for the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. If you decided to use garlic, this is the time to add it! Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute—just enough time for it to become fragrant but not brown.
4. Mix in the Cream:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream or milk, if you’re using it. Give it a good stir to combine with the melted butter. This will create a nice, rich base for your sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Add the cooked pasta back to the pot and gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring like crazy to get it melted and evenly coat the pasta. If your sauce feels too thick, don’t worry! Just add a little of that reserved pasta water until it’s just right.
6. Season to Perfection:
Season your dish with a sprinkle of salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir to mix everything together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Now, it’s time to serve! Plate your pasta warm and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a lovely touch. If you want, add a cherry tomato on the side for a pop of color!
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Sit back, relax, and savor your delicious Butter Parmesan Pasta! It’s simple, creamy, and oh-so-good!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any gluten-free pasta you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to achieve the best texture.
How Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegan by using vegan butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. For creaminess, substitute heavy cream or milk with a plant-based option like coconut milk or almond milk.
Is It Possible to Add Vegetables?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to enhance this dish! Consider mixing in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for added color and nutrition. Just cook them briefly in the pot before adding the pasta to ensure they’re tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra milk to bring back some of the creaminess!
