Pasta With Butter Recipe

Bring water to a boil

Place 3 liters (about 12 cups) of water in a large pot over high heat. Add 1.5 tablespoons coarse salt once the water begins to warm; this seasons the pasta. Bring to a rolling boil.

Cook pasta

Add 12 oz dry pasta to the boiling water and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, according to package time minus 1 minute for al dente (usually 8–10 minutes total depending on pasta).

Reserve pasta water & drain

Before draining, scoop out and reserve 1 to 1.5 cups (240–360 ml) of starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta in a colander, shaking briefly to remove excess water, and keep the pasta hot.

Prepare garlic (if using)

While the pasta cooks, mince 2 garlic cloves finely so they're ready. Have parsley chopped and cheese grated if using.

Melt butter and warm oil

Place a large wide skillet over medium-low heat. Add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. The oil raises the smoke point and adds sheen. Warm gently until the butter is fully melted and begins to foam but not brown, about 2–3 minutes.

Cook garlic gently

If using garlic, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook over low heat for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring continuously. Do not let it brown.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained hot pasta directly into the skillet with the melted butter. Toss or use tongs to combine, coating the strands evenly.

Emulsify with pasta water

Add 1/4 to 3/4 cup of the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time while tossing the pasta. The starchy water will emulsify with the butter to create a silky sauce. Use more water if the sauce seems dry; the final sauce should lightly coat the pasta without pooling.

Adjust seasoning and finish

Season with salt to taste and several grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Stir in optional 1 teaspoon lemon zest for brightness, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for freshness, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino if using. Toss until combined and the cheese has melted into the sauce. If needed, add a little more reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Serve

Remove from heat and transfer to warmed bowls or a serving platter. Optionally top with extra grated cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and an additional sprinkle of parsley and black pepper. Serve immediately.