When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hold the nostalgic charm and universal appeal of classic spaghetti. This old-school spaghetti recipe is a simple, straightforward dish that takes you back to family dinners and cozy gatherings, where the magic was in the humble ingredients and the love put into every bite.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe is for you. It’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and delivers a rich, buttery, garlicky flavor that’s utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 454 grams rotini pasta (or elbow macaroni, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer)
While this recipe traditionally calls for rotini, which holds sauce well with its twists and turns, feel free to use elbow macaroni or spaghetti as alternatives. Each shape brings its own texture and character to the dish. - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Salt is essential for seasoning the pasta water, ensuring your noodles are flavorful from the inside out. - 2 tablespoons butter
Butter adds richness and a creamy mouthfeel, making this simple pasta feel indulgent. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil complements the butter, adding a fruity, slightly peppery note and helping prevent the butter from burning during cooking. - 1 tablespoon garlic (minced from the jar or fresh)
Garlic is the star aromatic here, giving the dish its irresistible, savory backbone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to the boiling water—this is key for seasoning your pasta properly.
Add the rotini (or your pasta of choice) and cook according to package instructions until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through.
Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta. The reserved pasta water is a secret weapon to help bind and loosen the sauce later.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt slowly, blending with the olive oil to create a smooth base.
Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta in the fragrant, buttery garlic mixture.
If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This starchy water will help the sauce cling to the noodles and create a luscious texture.
4. Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Why This Old-School Spaghetti Is So Good
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