Side Dishes > Pasta Dishes (Side) > Simple Pasta Sides > Butter and Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Simple Butter and Parmesan Pasta Side Dish

This Butter and Parmesan Pasta is a classic, quick, and satisfying side dish. It's perfect for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or any main course that needs a simple, flavorful accompaniment. The key is to use good quality butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste. The recipe is easily customizable to your liking, and makes for a crowd pleasing and reliable pasta dish!

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10-12 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 8 oz Pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta in a colander.

Melt Butter

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat. Be careful not to brown the butter.

Combine Pasta and Butter

Add the drained pasta to the pot with the melted butter. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.

Add Parmesan and Season

Remove the pot from the heat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the pasta. Toss again to combine, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce. Add the pasta water little by little, it helps create an emulsion.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot as a side dish.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: Approximately 200-250
Protein: 8-10g
Fat: 8-12g
Carbohydrates: 25-30g
Fiber: 1-2g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

To reduce the fat content, you can use less butter or substitute part of it with olive oil. Using whole wheat pasta will increase the fiber content. Parmesan cheese is high in sodium; use it sparingly if you are watching your sodium intake.

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FAQ

  • Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

    Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose and other additives that can affect the melting and overall taste.
  • Can I add other flavors to this pasta?

    Absolutely! This recipe is a great base for adding other flavors. Consider adding garlic powder, red pepper flakes, herbs like oregano or basil, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  • How do I store leftovers?

    Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil, or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the pasta.