Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta
- Kosher salt, for boiling water
For the Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/3 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh-ground black pepper, to taste
- Sprinkling of parsley (dried or fresh), for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt, then add the pasta. Cook the pasta just until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking briefly until fragrant. Then add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer for 1-2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and lower the heat to medium. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Then add the freshly-grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice if using, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat every strand of pasta with the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Serve: Sprinkle with dried or fresh parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein.
- Use fresh parsley for a more vibrant garnish.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
