Step 1: Cook the Pasta

 

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

 

 

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

 

1. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

 

 

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

 

1. Return the cooked pasta to the pot and toss to coat it in the garlic butter.
2. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup) to help create a sauce. Stir until well combined. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

 

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

 

1. In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown.

 

 

Step 5: Serve

 

1. Serve the garlic butter pasta in bowls, topped with toasted breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
3. Serve immediately while hot.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

 

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

 

 

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

 

1. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

 

 

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

 

1. Return the cooked pasta to the pot and toss to coat it in the garlic butter.
2. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup) to help create a sauce. Stir until well combined. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

 

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

 

1. In a small skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown.

 

 

Step 5: Serve

 

1. Serve the garlic butter pasta in bowls, topped with toasted breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
3. Serve immediately while hot.