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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a perfectly cooked plate of spaghetti adorned with roasted garlic butter. This classic Italian recipe is a brilliant blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike. At its core, spaghetti with roasted garlic butter highlights the beauty of pasta, allowing each ingredient to shine while creating a harmonious dish that is both satisfying and indulgent.

Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Butter

Indulge in the simple yet rich flavors of spaghetti with roasted garlic butter, a delightful Italian classic. This easy recipe transforms roasted garlic into a sweet, caramelized topping that pairs beautifully with creamy butter and wholesome spaghetti. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a family dinner or a special gathering, this spaghetti is sure to impress and satisfy every palate. Enjoy the culinary journey while savoring each delicious bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 head of garlic

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap it in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Once done, let it cool slightly, then squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins into a small bowl and mash them into a paste.

    Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.

      Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the roasted garlic paste and stir, combining well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes to infuse the butter with garlic flavor.

        Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat evenly. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

          Season: Stir in red pepper flakes (if using), salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh thyme. Mix until well combined.

            Serve: Plate the spaghetti and generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon zest for a bright, zesty finish.

              Enjoy: Serve hot with extra Parmesan at the table for those who love a cheesy touch!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4