Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Warm the basil infused olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan a little at a time until the sauce turns smooth and glossy.
- Add the pasta to the skillet and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce clings to the noodles.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then fold in the chopped basil.
- Plate the pasta, finish with parsley, and serve right away with extra Parmesan if you like.
Notes
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, and keeping the heat low helps the sauce stay creamy. If the sauce tightens up, a splash of pasta water brings it right back. Finish with the basil oil at the end so the herb flavor stays vivid.
