Easy Pasta Recipes: Buttery Parmesan Spaghetti for Budget Dinners

Easy Pasta Recipes: Rich Pasta for the Poor Kitchen

Looking for easy pasta recipes that won’t break the bank? Dive into this rich pasta for the poor kitchen—a simple buttered noodles dish tossed with butter, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese in just minutes.

Why This Budget-Friendly Dinner Shines

There’s something comforting about a bowl of buttery noodles that transports you back to grandma’s kitchen. This recipe is:

• Super affordable – pantry staples you likely already have
• Ultra-simple – perfect for weeknight dinners
• Totally customizable – add veggies, protein, or spices

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 ounces dry spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, melt butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Stir in chopped parsley and keep warm.
3. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
4. Return the hot pasta to the pot, pour in the melted butter and parsley mixture, and toss to coat.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, adding a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach a silky, saucy consistency.
6. Season generously with salt and pepper, then plate and garnish with extra cheese and parsley.

Serving and Variations for Your Easy Pasta Recipes

• Spicy kick: sprinkle red pepper flakes or stir in a minced garlic clove.
• Veggie boost: toss in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Protein punch: add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or canned tuna.
• Herb twist: swap parsley for basil or cilantro for a fresh note.

Nutrition per serving: 453 calories; 34 g carbs; 30 g fat; 14 g protein; 2 g fiber; 1 g sugar; 1055 mg sodium; 79 mg cholesterol; 18 g saturated fat.

Give this simple crowd-pleaser a try tonight and discover why it’s one of the best easy pasta recipes for busy weeknights.

Recipe courtesy of Allrecipes.