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Spaghetti with roasted garlic butter is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that envelops the palate in warmth and comfort. This pasta dish highlights the delicate balance of flavors, combining the richness of butter with the sweet, mellow notes of roasted garlic. It’s a dish that evokes the essence of Italian cooking, where simplicity reigns supreme, and fresh ingredients take center stage. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, making it an ideal choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter

Discover the delightful taste of spaghetti with roasted garlic butter, where simplicity meets gourmet flavors. This comforting dish combines rich butter with sweet, mellow roasted garlic, making it an easy yet impressive choice for any occasion. With just a handful of quality ingredients like fresh parsley and zesty lemon, you can elevate your pasta experience. Perfect for cozy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe invites you to indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey. Enjoy every bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 whole head of garlic

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the garlic.

    Roast the Garlic: Take a whole head of garlic and carefully slice the top off to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the exposed cloves and wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves become soft and caramelized. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool enough to handle.

      Cook the Spaghetti: While your garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiled, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the spaghetti in a colander.

        Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins directly into the skillet with the butter. Use a fork or wooden spoon to mash the garlic into the butter to your desired level of smoothness.

          Create the Sauce: Pour in the extra virgin olive oil into the garlic butter mixture and stir until fully integrated. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage. Gradually add half of the reserved pasta cooking water into the mixture, stirring to combine and create a smooth sauce.

            Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated. If you find the dish a bit dry, add more reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

              Final Touches: Remove the skillet from heat and quickly stir in the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This will add a fresh and zesty brightness to the dish. Top generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

                Serve and Enjoy: Serve the spaghetti immediately, garnishing each plate with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Dive in and savor the rich and savory flavors of your exquisite Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter!

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