Description
This garlic butter pesto pasta is rich, silky, and packed with fresh basil flavor. Tender pasta is coated in a glossy garlic butter pesto sauce with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an easy comforting meal that feels restaurant worthy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 minced garlic cloves
- 3/4 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir basil pesto into the garlic butter mixture until fully combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water.
- Toss gently until the sauce becomes silky and evenly coats the pasta.
- Top with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan before serving warm.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help create a glossy smooth sauce.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture.
- Do not overcook the garlic or it may become bitter.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.