Description

This Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. It relies on a technique called emulsification, where starchy pasta water joins forces with melted butter and cheese to create a silky sauce. It is a flavor-packed wonder that is versatile enough to be a side dish but hearty enough to stand alone as the main event.

Ingredients

Scale

16 ounces (1 box) Fettuccine pasta
1/2 cup Unsalted butter (1 stick)
4 large Cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 1/2 cups Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Salt (plus more for the pasta water)
1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1/2 cup Reserved pasta water

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Instructions

Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and a tablespoon of salt. Cook fettuccine until al dente. Before draining, scoop out one cup of the cloudy pasta water and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden-brown and fragrant.
Create the Base: Pour heavy cream into the pot with the garlic butter. Simmer gently for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Whisk in salt and black pepper.
Combine and Emulsify: Add the cooked fettuccine back to the pot. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss constantly while slowly pouring in reserved pasta water until a glossy sauce coats every strand.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra black pepper before serving.

Notes

Never add oil to your pasta water as it prevents the sauce from sticking to the noodles. Always grate your cheese fresh from a block to avoid clumping caused by pre-shredded varieties. For a bright finish, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 510
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 95mg