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Italian cuisine has an unparalleled ability to evoke warmth and comfort with its rich flavors and simple ingredients. One dish that perfectly embodies this essence is Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter. This delightful pasta dish marries the earthy sweetness of roasted garlic with the creamy richness of butter, offering a flavor experience that is both comforting and indulgent. It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence yet can also be elevated for special occasions, impressing your guests with its gourmet appeal.

Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter

Discover the irresistible comfort of Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter, a classic Italian dish that blends rich flavors and simple ingredients. Roasted garlic becomes sweet and mellow, perfectly complemented by creamy butter and a hint of fresh lemon. This easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners but can also impress guests at special occasions. Dive into the step-by-step guide to create a restaurant-quality meal that showcases the beauty of simplicity in cooking.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 head of garlic

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, exposing the cloves. Drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil and wrap it in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and caramelized. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out the softened garlic into a bowl and mash it with a fork.

    Cook the Spaghetti: While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

      Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and remaining olive oil. Add the mashed roasted garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

        Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta in the garlic butter mixture. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add in some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

          Finish Up: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until everything is evenly combined.

            Serve: Divide the spaghetti into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Add extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes for garnish if desired.

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