Description
Classic spaghetti tossed in a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce, paired with crispy, homemade garlic bread. This comforting American dinner recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for a satisfying family meal with vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch from the garlic bread.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Bread
- 1 loaf Italian or French bread, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same pot or a large pan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Stir in Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep warm.
- Make the Garlic Butter for Bread: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to form a spreadable garlic butter.
- Prepare the Garlic Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread halves.
- Bake the Garlic Bread: Place the bread halves cut side up on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy on the edges and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Slice the garlic bread and serve alongside the hot garlic Parmesan spaghetti. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the spaghetti sauce for a spicier dish.
- Add Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the spaghetti for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use Different Herbs: Try oregano, basil, or thyme in the garlic butter for a new flavor profile.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute Parmesan with mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago cheese in the garlic bread.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare garlic butter up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before spreading on bread.
- Garlic Bread without Oven: Cook bread halves buttered with garlic butter in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy.
