10-Minute Garlic Butter Parmesan Pasta

10-Minute Garlic Butter Parmesan Pasta
📝 Ingredients
250 g (8 oz) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
3 tbsp butter
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup (60 ml) pasta water (reserved)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
🥣 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring salted water to a boil.
   Cook pasta according to package instructions (8–10 minutes).
   Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Make Garlic Butter
   In the same pot or a pan:
   Melt butter over medium heat
   Add garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds (don’t brown it)
3. Combine
   Add drained pasta to the pan.
   Pour in reserved pasta water and toss to coat.
4. Add Cheese
   Turn off heat and add Parmesan.
   Toss quickly until creamy and smooth.
5. Season & Serve
   Add salt, pepper, and olive oil if desired.
   Sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan.
   ✨ Tips for Success
   Add cheese off heat to prevent clumping
   Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture
   Pasta water helps create a silky sauce