Buttery Noodles with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
Ingredients
- 1 poundpasta (any shape)
- 6 tablespoonbutter
- 3 clovesgarlic
- 1 cuppanko breadcrumbs
- ¾ cupparmesan cheese
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
- ¼ cupfresh parsley (optional)
Prep
- 01
Mince 3 cloves garlic.
- 02
Finely chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley (if using).
Method
- 01
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- 02
While pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 03
In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring often, for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- 04
Return the pasta pot to medium heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the garlicky butter from the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta, add 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, and stir gently. Add pasta water a splash at a time if needed to create a silky coating.
- 05
Divide pasta among bowls. Top each with crispy breadcrumbs, remaining parmesan, and a sprinkle of parsley if using. Serve immediately.
This recipe is gentle enough for young palates—buttery, mild, and familiar—while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a fun texture kids enjoy. Make-ahead tip: the breadcrumb mixture can be toasted up to 2 hours ahead and stored in an airtight container.