Description
Irresistible Garlic Bread Pasta is a comforting and flavorful Italian-American dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a rich garlic butter sauce, toasted breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe makes a perfect main course or side, with optional add-ins like shrimp or chicken to elevate it further.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce and Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned to prevent bitterness.
- Toast Breadcrumbs: Stir the seasoned breadcrumbs into the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until they turn golden and crispy, adding texture and flavor reminiscent of garlic bread.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat it evenly with the garlic butter and toasted breadcrumb mixture. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water, stirring until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the chopped fresh parsley to add brightness and color. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Notes
- To turn this into a hearty main dish, add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
- Add lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy brightness to the dish.
- Make sure not to brown the garlic as it can develop a bitter taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
