Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta is a delicious, quick meal that combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and spicy chili oil with tender pappardelle noodles. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a comforting bowl of pasta. With its simple ingredients and bold taste, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic chili oil and unsalted butter creates a rich and savory sauce that elevates the pasta.
• Versatile: Customize your pasta by adding vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• Simple ingredients: You can easily find all the ingredients in your pantry, making this recipe accessible for everyone.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta will be a hit!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into creating the Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta, ensure you have the right tools on hand to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pappardelle noodles evenly.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from the pasta without losing any noodles.
• Skillet: Ideal for preparing and combining the garlic butter sauce with the noodles.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient measurements for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta is pappardelle noodles tossed in a flavorful, homemade chili oil garlic butter sauce.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces Pappardelle noodles
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons crunchy garlic chili oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ cup (119 g) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese (grated, plus more for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (more or less to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• green onion (minced, for garnish)

How to Make Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pappardelle Noodles

1. Fill a large pot with water and add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the pappardelle noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the noodles in a colander.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Oil Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of crunchy garlic chili oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Mix well until combined.
4. Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream and stir until heated through.
5. Add grated parmesan cheese gradually while stirring until melted and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Add the drained pappardelle noodles directly into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss everything together gently while adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season with additional kosher salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

1. Plate your Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta.
2. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and minced green onions before serving hot.

Enjoy this delightful dish that’s perfect for any pasta lover!

How to Serve Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this flavorful pasta.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle minced green onions on top for added freshness and a pop of color.
• Extra Parmesan: Grate additional parmesan cheese over the pasta for a richer flavor.

Pair with Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside or atop grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
• Sautéed Shrimp: Add sautéed shrimp for a delightful seafood twist that pairs beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.

Add Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A side of steamed broccoli brings color and nutrition to your plate.
• Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Roasted tomatoes add a sweet contrast to the spicy garlic butter.

How to Perfect Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

To make the best Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is packed with flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality butter significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
• Adjust Spice Level: Control the heat by varying the amount of chili oil you use, perfect for personal taste preferences.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure pappardelle noodles are cooked al dente for the best texture; they should have a slight bite.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.
• Toss Thoroughly: Mix the pasta well with the sauce to coat every strand evenly, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve your pasta hot right after preparation.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta can elevate your meal. Consider these delicious options to complement your main course.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
2. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds crispness and balances out the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables enhances flavors while adding nutrition.
4. Caprese Salad: The combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a refreshing contrast to spicy pasta.
5. Minestrone Soup: This hearty soup serves as a warm starter that pairs well with Italian flavors.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta adds comfort and complements the richness of chili oil garlic butter sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Always follow the package instructions and taste it a minute before the suggested time. This will ensure your noodles remain al dente.

• Ignoring salt in the cooking water: Adding kosher salt to boiling water enhances flavor. Forgetting this step can make your pasta bland.

• Using too much garlic: While garlic is essential for flavor, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount unless you love intense garlic flavors.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust with salt or pepper as needed. This will enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Skipping the garnishes: Fresh ingredients like green onions and extra parmesan add freshness and texture. Don’t skip these—they elevate your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

• Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months.
• Divide into portions for easier thawing and use.

Reheating Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a pan, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta:

What type of pasta works best for Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta?

Pappardelle noodles are ideal due to their ability to hold onto sauces well, but you can substitute with linguine or fettuccine if preferred.

Can I make Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

How spicy is Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta?

The spiciness level depends on the amount of chili oil used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more as desired.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or turkey can be added for extra protein. Just cook them separately and mix them in before serving.

How do I make my chili oil from scratch?

Combine vegetable oil with dried chili flakes over low heat until fragrant. Strain and store it for future use—it’s simple and enhances flavor!

Final Thoughts

Chili Oil Garlic Butter Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with easy preparation. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it may just become your new favorite meal!