🍝 Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs

/ vegeterian / By

A quick, comforting dish made with pantry staples—silky garlic butter coats warm pasta, finished with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping.

🧑‍🍳 Overview

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 2
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

📝 Ingredients

  • 160g (about 6 oz) spaghetti or pasta of choice
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt & black pepper
  • 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

  • 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast
  • Optional: parsley or chili flakes to garnish

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
  • Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (not browned).
  • Add drained pasta and a splash of reserved water. Toss until glossy.
  • Season with salt and pepper.

3. Crisp the Breadcrumbs

  • In a separate pan, heat olive oil or butter.
  • Add breadcrumbs and toast until golden, 2–3 minutes.
  • Add salt and optional Parmesan.

4. Assemble and Serve

  • Plate pasta, sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs.
  • Garnish with parsley, chili flakes, or more cheese if desired.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Add lemon zest for brightness.
  • Toss in spinach, peas, or canned tuna for a simple protein boost.
  • Use panko for extra crunch.

🍽️ Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: ~460
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbs: 50g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Fiber: 3g

🛠️ Handy Tool

For perfect garlic slices…

🔪 Handheld Garlic Press or Microplane

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📂 Categories

  • Main Categories: Pasta, Quick Meals
  • Additional Tags:
    • Budget-Friendly
    • Pantry Recipes
    • Weeknight Dinner
    • Vegetarian
    • Comfort Food