This Butter Parmesan Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that everyone will love. With just butter, parmesan cheese, and pasta, it’s super easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner!
You might find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!). I know I do! A sprinkle of pepper on top makes it even better. This dish always hits the spot for me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fusilli is a great choice because its twists hold sauce well. However, you can substitute with any pasta type like spaghetti, penne, or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also work well!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might try using olive oil instead, which also adds a different flavor. Just keep it to a few tablespoons.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for a creamy texture. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Fresh Parsley: This is optional but adds a nice fresh touch. If you don’t have parsley, consider basil or even arugula as a garnish for added flavor.
How Do I Get the Creamiest Sauce?
The secret to a creamy sauce lies in the cheese and the reserved pasta water. When you combine them, the heat from the pasta melts the cheese, creating a luscious texture. Keeping some water helps adjust the sauce’s thickness.
- Be sure to add the cheese while the pasta is still hot to help it melt better.
- Gradually mix in the pasta water. Start with just a little, as you can always add more if it’s too thick.
- Toss everything gently to combine. This will help to prevent clumping and ensures every strand is coated.
How to Make Butter Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 ounces fusilli or your favorite pasta
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple dish takes about 15 minutes total—just about 10 minutes for prep and cooking, plus a few minutes for serving. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or whenever you’re in a rush!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This enhances the pasta’s flavor. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook until it’s al dente (meaning it’s still firm when you bite it)—follow the package instructions for timing.
2. Reserve Pasta Water:
Before draining your pasta, don’t forget to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is key for making your sauce creamy!
3. Drain the Pasta:
Carefully drain the pasta in a colander. Then, return it to the pot but make sure the heat is turned off. This keeps it from cooking too much.
4. Add Butter:
Now, add the butter straight into the hot pasta. Toss it around until the butter melts and coats all the pasta evenly. Yum!
5. Make it Cheesy:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add a couple of tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and mix until it becomes a smooth, creamy sauce. If it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more water until it reaches the desired consistency.
6. Season:
Finally, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last toss to combine everything.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Butter Parmesan Pasta right away! For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top and add some fresh parsley if you like.
This is a comforting, rich dish that’s sure to satisfy. Enjoy your pasta night!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fusilli is great for holding sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parmesan Cheese?
Don’t worry! You can substitute grated Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor. For a dairy-free alternative, try using nutritional yeast—it will provide a cheesy taste without the dairy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and replace the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version that’s still delicious!
