Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano: A Taste of Italian Simplicity
Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano
Equipment
- Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Pasta strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 400 g 14 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 100 g 3.5 oz unsalted high-quality butter
- 120 g 4 oz freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper optional
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Method:
- Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions for timing). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Melt the Butter
- In a large mixing bowl, add the butter. Pour a few tablespoons of the hot reserved pasta water over it to melt it into a creamy consistency.
- Combine
- Toss the drained pasta into the butter. Add half of the Parmigiano-Reggiano and a splash of pasta water. Mix vigorously to coat every strand, creating a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
- Finish with Cheese
- Add the remaining Parmigiano-Reggiano and continue to mix until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and optional black pepper.
- Serve Immediately
- Plate the pasta while hot and garnish with extra cheese if desired.
- Variations & Tips:
- Variations:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly nutty flavor.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or peas for texture and variety.
- Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Dietary Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Gluten-free pasta works well for those avoiding gluten.
- Tips:
- Use the highest quality butter and cheese for the best flavor.
- Work quickly to keep the pasta hot for optimal sauce emulsification.
Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano is a quintessential dish that embodies Italian culinary philosophy, simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Originating from central Italy, this dish relies on high-quality butter, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a comforting meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Let me show you how I make this classic recipe, drawing from my own personal experience to ensure success every time.
What to Expect:
A perfectly creamy, buttery pasta that highlights the nutty, savory qualities of Parmigiano-Reggiano. The dish feels rich yet light, with the right balance of salty and buttery flavors.
Recipe Details:
- Cuisine: Italian
- Course: Main
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~450 per serving
- Cost of Ingredients: $8–12, depending on the quality of butter and cheese
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Pasta strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory #Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano now.
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted high-quality butter
- 120g (4 oz) freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory #Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano now.
Step-by-Step Method:
- Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (check package instructions for timing). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. - Melt the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, add the butter. Pour a few tablespoons of the hot reserved pasta water over it to melt it into a creamy consistency. - Combine
Toss the drained pasta into the butter. Add half of the Parmigiano-Reggiano and a splash of pasta water. Mix vigorously to coat every strand, creating a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency. - Finish with Cheese
Add the remaining Parmigiano-Reggiano and continue to mix until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and optional black pepper. - Serve Immediately
Plate the pasta while hot and garnish with extra cheese if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- Variations:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly nutty flavor.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or peas for texture and variety.
- Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Dietary Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Gluten-free pasta works well for those avoiding gluten.
- Tips:
- Use the highest quality butter and cheese for the best flavor.
- Work quickly to keep the pasta hot for optimal sauce emulsification.
- > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory #Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano now.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Closing Note:
I hope this guide has made Pasta al Burro e Parmigiano feel approachable and inspired you to try this timeless Italian dish. Have you tried it before? Does this seem less daunting now? Please be honest and let me know in the comments below. I love hearing feedback from real people like you, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts!
Hello all,
Zio Leo here!
Cooking and sharing great food brings people together in the most authentic way, in my own personal experience, and with a lifelong passion for Italian cuisine, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and stories that celebrate the rich flavors of Italy. From classic dishes to modern twists, have my guides inspired you to bring a little bit of Italy into your kitchen? Please, be honest with me here. Leave your comments down below. I’d love to hear from real people like you. Read more about me here! =>>