Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt—the water should taste like the sea. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (tender but still slightly firm to the bite). Before draining, use a measuring cup to scoop out and reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water—this is crucial for creating a silky sauce later. Drain the pasta in a colander but don’t rinse it (the residual starch helps the sauce cling).

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the pasta cooks, prepare your garlic butter sauce. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted and gently bubbling, add the minced garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and softened but not browned. Watch carefully—garlic burns quickly and burnt garlic tastes bitter. If the garlic starts to brown, immediately reduce heat. The goal is soft, fragrant, golden garlic that infuses the butter with flavor.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. Using tongs or a wooden spoon, toss the pasta to coat every strand with the garlicky butter. Add ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water and continue tossing. The starchy water will help create a light, silky sauce that clings to the noodles rather than pooling at the bottom of the bowl. If the pasta seems dry, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you achieve a glossy, cohesive consistency.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the skillet from heat. Add the grated parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together vigorously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy coating on the pasta. The residual heat will melt the cheese without making it clumpy. Taste and adjust seasoning—you might want more salt, pepper, or parmesan depending on your preferences.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Add the fresh chopped parsley and toss once more to distribute it evenly. Transfer the garlic butter noodles to a serving bowl or individual plates. Top with additional grated parmesan cheese and a final crack of black pepper if desired. Serve immediately while hot—this dish is best enjoyed fresh when the butter is still glossy and the pasta is perfectly hot.