Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked noodles, glistening with rich garlic butter, crowned with sweet caramelized shallots that melt in your mouth. This isn't just another pasta dish - this is a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive side dish that'll have everyone asking for seconds, these Garlic Butter Noodles with Caramelized Shallots are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large shallots, sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the shallots. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add sliced shallots to the skillet and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. This process requires patience to develop a rich, sweet flavor.
- Remove the caramelized shallots from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter.
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the cooked noodles in a colander.
- Add the drained noodles directly to the skillet with garlic butter. Toss to coat the noodles evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and continue tossing. If the noodles seem dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Top the noodles with the caramelized shallots, distributing them evenly.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Patience is key when caramelizing shallots - keep the heat low and slow to develop those deep, sweet flavors.
- Use fresh garlic and mince it finely to prevent burning and ensure even flavor distribution.
- Reserve pasta water before draining - this starchy liquid is liquid gold for creating a silky sauce.
- Don't overcook the garlic; 30-45 seconds is all you need to release its aromatic essence.
- For extra richness, consider using high-quality European-style butter.
- Freshly grated Parmesan will always taste better than pre-grated cheese.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the noodles at their most luxurious, while the butter is still glossy and warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 306kcal
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 9g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 21mg
