Spaghetti Garlic Bread is a simple and delicious meal that brings together the comforting flavors of pasta and the irresistible taste of garlic bread. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner or just looking for something quick and tasty. The combination of the garlicky spaghetti and warm, buttery garlic bread is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make, which means more time to enjoy your meal and less time in the kitchen!
How to make Spaghetti Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 quarts water
- 2 tablespoons salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 loaf Italian bread, about 24 inches long
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of salt.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions (8-10 minutes), or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Saute for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat. Pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss again. Add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Slice the Italian bread lengthwise, creating two long halves.
- Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves.
- Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C).
- Place the garlic bread halves on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and the garlic butter is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispy garlic bread. Watch carefully.
- Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into individual pieces.
- Divide the spaghetti among individual plates.
- Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the spaghetti immediately with the warm, garlicky bread on the side.
How to serve Spaghetti Garlic Bread
Serve the spaghetti in individual bowls, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor. Pair each serving with a warm slice of garlic bread on the side. This combination makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
How to store Spaghetti Garlic Bread
If you have leftovers, store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The garlic bread can also be wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or placed in a container and stored in the fridge for a similar period. To reheat, warm the spaghetti in a saucepan over low heat and pop the garlic bread in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
Tips to make Spaghetti Garlic Bread
- Make sure the water is fully boiling before adding the spaghetti to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. If you love garlic, you can increase it in both the spaghetti and the garlic bread.
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables or proteins, like chicken or shrimp, to the spaghetti for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less pasta water when tossing the spaghetti.
Variation
You can add various ingredients to spice up this recipe. Try adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to your spaghetti. For a twist on the garlic bread, sprinkle some mozzarella cheese on top before baking for cheesy garlic bread.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure no meat is added.
2. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti can be a healthier option and works well in this recipe.
3. How do I make the garlic bread without using butter?
You can substitute olive oil or a vegan butter alternative in place of regular butter for a lighter version of garlic bread.
4. Can I freeze the leftover spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze spaghetti in an airtight container. Just be sure to consume it within 2-3 months for the best flavor.
5. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can use gluten-free spaghetti and gluten-free bread to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spaghetti Garlic Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of salt.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions (8-10 minutes), or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Saute for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat.
- Pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss again. Add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Slice the Italian bread lengthwise, creating two long halves.
- Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves.
- Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C).
- Place the garlic bread halves on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and the garlic butter is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispy garlic bread. Watch carefully.
- Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into individual pieces.
- Divide the spaghetti among individual plates.
- Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the spaghetti immediately with the warm, garlicky bread on the side.
