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When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key, especially when you’re trying to please the whole family. Enter the Family-Friendly Garlic Butter Pasta—a delightful dish that embodies comfort, taste, and speed. As the days get busier, this quick recipe becomes your steadfast ally in the kitchen, transforming ordinary ingredients into a meal that feels special without requiring hours of preparation.

Family-Friendly Garlic Butter Pasta: Your Quick Weeknight Ally

Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Try Family-Friendly Garlic Butter Pasta! This easy recipe combines creamy garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, ensuring it appeals to even the pickiest eaters. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish that’s versatile—add veggies or proteins to make it your own. Perfect for busy nights, this delightful dish will soon become a family favorite, bringing everyone together for a tasty meal.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta

4 tbsp unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

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

    Make the Garlic Butter: In the same pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.

      Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the garlic butter. Toss to combine, ensuring all the noodles are well coated. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

        Add Flavor: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Toss everything together and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest, if desired.

          Serve: Portion the garlic butter pasta onto plates or a serving dish. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus.

            Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 20 min | Servings: 4