Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Bread Pasta recipe that combines cavatappi pasta tossed in rich garlic butter and topped with crispy, buttery breadcrumbs for a comforting meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound Cavatappi Pasta
Breadcrumb Topping
- 3/4 cup dried plain breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (for browning)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Garlic Butter
- 1/2 cup salted butter (melted)
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the cavatappi pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Brown the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter. Continue cooking, swirling frequently, until the butter turns a deep amber color and develops a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: Lower the heat to low and add the dried breadcrumbs, dried parsley, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and pepper to the browned butter. Stir well to coat the breadcrumbs evenly, then remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking.
- Melt Garlic Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of butter with the minced garlic. Microwave until the butter is fully melted and the garlic is fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.
- Toss Pasta with Garlic Butter: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cooked pasta and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with the flavorful butter.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Add the browned buttered breadcrumbs to the pasta and toss again gently to evenly distribute the crunchy topping.
- Serve: Plate the garlic bread pasta while warm and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use salted butter for the best flavor balance.
- Browning the butter adds a rich nutty taste that enhances the dish.
- Be sure to continuously swirl the butter while browning to prevent burning.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure the breadcrumbs do not contain any animal products.
- For a crunchier topping, toast the breadcrumbs separately in a dry skillet before adding to the butter.
