This Butter Parmesan Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy to make! With just butter, parmesan cheese, and your favorite pasta, it’s a simple dish that feels special.
I love how this meal comes together in a flash. Perfect for those nights when you want comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini works great here, but any pasta shape you love will do! You could use penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan makes the sauce creamy and flavorful. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan option that still adds that cheese flavor.
Garlic: It’s optional, but I really enjoy the extra depth it brings. If you want a milder garlic flavor, you could use garlic powder or omit it altogether.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a little heat, this is a fantastic addition. If you don’t have them on hand, a dash of black pepper or even a sprinkle of paprika can work in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure The Sauce is Creamy?
The key to a creamy sauce lies in blending the cheese with the pasta cooking water. Here’s how to achieve that smooth texture:
- Reserve the pasta cooking water before draining. It has starch that helps the sauce adhere.
- When adding the reserved water, start with a small amount and gradually increase. This prevents the cheese from clumping.
- Stir continuously as you add water to encourage a smooth consistency. The heat will help melt the cheese quickly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
By following these simple techniques, you’ll have a creamy Butter Parmesan Pasta that’s sure to impress!
Butter Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred shape)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, reserved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Butter Parmesan Pasta can be made in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta, and then just a few more minutes mixing everything together. Perfect for a quick and cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is important as it helps flavor the pasta. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, save 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Melt the Butter:
Return the empty pot or a large skillet to the stove over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt gently. If you’re using garlic, now’s the time to add it! Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Combine the Pasta with Butter:
Once the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant, add the drained pasta back into the pot. Toss it gently in the melted butter, making sure the pasta gets evenly coated.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, it’s time for the Parmesan! Sprinkle the grated cheese over the pasta. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, one or two tablespoons at a time, while stirring. This will help the cheese melt and create a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. Keep mixing until everything is smooth and well combined.
5. Season and Serve:
Taste the pasta and add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Give it another good toss to mix it all in. Serve the Butter Parmesan Pasta right away, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and, if you like, a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat!
Enjoy your warm and creamy Butter Parmesan Pasta – a delicious dish that satisfies with minimal effort!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. For a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
While Butter Parmesan Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or extra butter to adjust the consistency.
