Best Garlic Butter Pasta Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Garlic butter pasta sauce is a rich and flavorful addition to any pasta dish. The combination of garlic and butter creates a deliciously creamy and aromatic sauce that perfectly coats and complements your favorite pasta. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it a go-to sauce for any pasta lover. In this blog post, we will guide you through the ingredients and directions to create a mouthwatering garlic butter pasta sauce that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To make garlic butter pasta sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the garlic butter pasta sauce:

1. Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely and start bubbling.

2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden brown. Make sure to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

3. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine the butter, garlic, and cream, ensuring they are thoroughly mixed together.

4. Let the sauce simmer gently over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese completely melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow it to thicken further and intensify the flavors.

8. Serve the garlic butter pasta sauce over your favorite cooked pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine.

9. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for an added pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy your homemade garlic butter pasta with this flavorful sauce that will elevate your pasta dishes to a whole new level!

FAQ

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While unsalted butter is preferable in this recipe, you can still use salted butter if that’s all you have on hand. Just be cautious when adding additional salt to the sauce, as salted butter already contains some salt.

2. Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

If you prefer a lighter version of the garlic butter pasta sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that this will result in a thinner sauce with a less creamy texture.

3. Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?

Absolutely! This basic garlic butter sauce can serve as a delicious base for experimenting with additional flavors. You can add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the sauce and customize it to your liking.

4. How long can I store the leftover sauce?

If you have any leftovers, you can store the garlic butter pasta sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

5. Can I freeze the sauce for future use?

Yes, you can freeze the garlic butter pasta sauce for future use. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Label and date the container before placing it in the freezer. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.