Description
Garlic Bread Pasta is a deliciously simple and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of buttery garlic, crispy toasted breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This easy stovetop recipe makes a quick vegetarian dinner that feels indulgent while using minimal ingredients. Additions like sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken can easily make it heartier.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Garlic Breadcrumb Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Melt Butter and Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt together the butter and olive oil until combined and hot.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and soft but not browned.
- Toast Breadcrumbs: Stir in the seasoned breadcrumbs and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the breadcrumbs become golden brown and crispy.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the garlic breadcrumb mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley until incorporated, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Serve the garlic bread pasta warm with extra Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs sprinkled on top for garnish.
Notes
- Add sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken to make a heartier meal.
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Be careful not to brown the garlic too much to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water is key to loosening the sauce and helping it stick to the pasta nicely.
