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Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter is a timeless dish that effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication. The allure of this recipe lies in its ability to transform a few basic ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish not only celebrates the mild sweetness of roasted garlic but also highlights the smooth texture of perfectly cooked spaghetti enveloped in rich, buttery goodness. Ideal for both a cozy weeknight dinner and an elegant dinner party, this recipe embodies the heart of Italian cooking—delicious, fresh ingredients prepared with love.

Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter

Discover the delightful simplicity of Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter. This mouthwatering dish combines rich roasted garlic and buttery goodness, creating a culinary masterpiece that's easy to prepare for any occasion. Learn about the essential ingredients and their flavors, plus a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results. With its health benefits and elegant presentation, this pasta dish is sure to impress family and friends at your next dinner!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 whole bulb of garlic

1/2 cup unsalted butter (equivalent to 1 stick)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on desired heat level)

Salt, to taste

Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1/2 lemon

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving if desired

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Optional: Additional cheese for garnishing

Instructions
 

Roast the Garlic: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a whole bulb of garlic and slice off the top, just enough to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle with olive oil to coat, then wrap the bulb securely in aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves become soft and caramelized. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Squeeze the soft, roasted garlic out of the skins into a bowl, discarding the peels.

    Cook the Spaghetti: As the garlic roasts, fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

      Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it begins to foam, add the pureed roasted garlic and the red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture gently for about 2-3 minutes until aromatic, ensuring that the garlic doesn’t brown to avoid bitterness.

        Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Use tongs to toss the noodles thoroughly, coating them evenly with the sauce. If the dish appears too dry, slowly incorporate some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess.

          Finish the Dish: Stir in the lemon zest, the juice of 1/2 lemon, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, mixing everything together until well-combined.

            Serve: Transfer the spaghetti to plates or a large serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the rich flavors of your spaghetti with roasted garlic butter!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4