There’s something utterly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially on a weeknight after a long day. Picture this: in just 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for even the busiest of evenings. My creamy Miso Butter Pasta, kissed with the umami richness of white miso and the aromatic magic of garlic, transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal. The silky sauce envelops each strand of spaghetti, creating a cozy embrace on your plate.
As the shiitake mushrooms sauté away, releasing their savory essence, you’ll find it hard to resist a taste before it’s even served. Whether you’re craving something fast but flavorful or on the lookout for a crowd-pleaser that leaves room for creativity, this dish checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into this quick culinary adventure and bring a delicious fusion of flavors to your dinner table in no time!
Why is 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta a must-try?
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Umami Packed: The blend of white miso and garlic delivers a satisfying depth of flavor.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet — perfect for weeknight meals.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Easily adaptable to vegan diets with the right substitutions, welcoming all eaters!
Creative Customization: Add proteins or swap pasta shapes to personalize this dish just for you.
With its blend of convenience and rich flavors, this pasta dish is sure to become a staple!
20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta Ingredients
Ready to create a delicious, quick dish? Here’s everything you need to make the 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta.
For the Pasta
- Spaghetti – The foundation of the dish; fits perfectly with the creamy sauce. Substitute with linguine or bucatini for a twist.
For the Sauce
- Grass-fed unsalted butter – Adds luxurious richness; can be swapped with dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses the pasta with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is best, but powder works in a pinch.
- White miso paste – Essential for that umami punch; yellow miso can stand in if needed.
- Reserved pasta water – Key for manipulating sauce consistency; keeps the dish creamy and luscious.
- Low-sodium soy sauce – Enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness; tamari or coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free or soy-free dish.
For the Add-ins
- Shiitake mushrooms (sliced) – Adds depth and a chewy texture; feel free to sub with your favorite mushrooms.
- Scallions (thinly sliced) – Provides a fresh, crunchy garnish that pops with color.
For the Toppings
- Sesame seeds – Sprinkle on top for a delightful nutty crunch.
- Chili oil crunch – Adds just the right amount of heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to a heartwarming meal that can elevate your weeknight dining experience!
How to Make 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta
- Boil! Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of that pasta water before draining!
- Melt! In a large skillet, over medium heat, melt the grass-fed unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic and golden.
- Whisk! Stir in the white miso paste along with ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Whisk it all together until you achieve a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Sauté! Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become tender and slightly browned. The aroma will be absolutely delightful!
- Combine! Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything well to coat the pasta with the rich sauce. Feel free to add more reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired creaminess. Season with low-sodium soy sauce to taste.
- Serve! Dish out your pasta into bowls and top with thinly sliced scallions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a drizzle of chili oil crunch for added flavor.
Optional: For extra heartiness, mix in some cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute grass-fed butter with dairy-free butter for a vegan delight while keeping the creaminess intact.
- Mushroom Options: Try swapping shiitake for portobello or cremini mushrooms for a different flavor profile and texture experience.
- Pasta Shapes: Use udon noodles instead of spaghetti for a chewy twist that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
- Protein Boost: Add in cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu just before serving for a heartier meal that satisfies your hunger.
- Spicy Kick: Enhance heat by adding red pepper flakes alongside chili oil for those who enjoy a little extra spice in their life.
- Veggie Additions: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for an added nutritional boost and vibrant color.
- Nutty Flavor: Throw in slivered almonds or crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Citrus Zing: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright contrast that elevates the umami flavors of the dish.
With these variations, your 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta is sure to transform into a new favorite! Enjoy crafting the perfect bowl just for you!
How to Store and Freeze 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta
Fridge: Store your leftover 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain its flavors and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure the pasta is cooled completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and maintain creaminess.
Room Temperature: If leaving out for a short period, consume within 2 hours to prevent spoilage; always refrigerate leftovers promptly for safety.
Expert Tips for 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes; too long can cause bitterness.
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Always reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Start with a little and add more gradually.
- Miso Magic: Ensure the miso is fully dissolved in the sauce; this maximizes flavor and creaminess in your 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta.
- Mushroom Selection: Fresh shiitake mushrooms bring the best flavor. If using dried, remember to rehydrate them first for optimal texture.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add protein like tofu or shrimp right before serving for a heartier meal that suits your tastes.
What to Serve with 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta?
When preparing a cozy dinner, it’s all about rounding out the meal with vibrant sides and delightful pairings.
- Garlic Bread: The perfect companion, offering a crispy contrast to the creamy pasta, enhancing your meal experience.
- Simple Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the richness of the miso butter sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: This healthful green brings a tender crunch and vibrant color, complementing the dish while providing a nutritious boost.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, the earthy flavor of asparagus harmonizes elegantly with the umami of the pasta.
- Crispy Tofu: Adding protein with a delightful texture, a hint of soy or miso glaze will mirror the dish’s flavors beautifully.
- Chili Oil Dumplings: For a fusion flair, serve dumplings alongside, their spicy kick enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Ginger Lemonade: A refreshing drink, its zingy citrus notes cut through the richness, making every bite of pasta even more enjoyable.
- Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake: End the meal with a light dessert that carries forward the umami theme, providing a sweet and subtly flavored finale.
Make Ahead Options
These 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can cook the spaghetti up to 24 hours in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent sticking. The creamy miso sauce can also be prepared a day before, simply refrigerate it in a separate container. To maintain quality, reheat the sauce gently while adding a splash of reserved pasta water to revive its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the pasta and sauce in a skillet, toss well, and finish with your favorite toppings for a meal that feels just as delicious as when freshly made!
20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best miso paste?
When choosing miso paste, look for a smooth texture and a rich aroma. White miso has the sweetest and mildest flavor, while yellow miso is a bit stronger. If you’re trying to avoid salt, check for low-sodium options as well. I often prefer white miso for this recipe because it perfectly balances the butter and garlic!
What’s the best way to store leftover pasta?
Store your leftover 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To keep it fresh, allow it to cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to dig in again, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce!
Can I freeze 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove, adding a bit of pasta water to get that creamy texture back.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is too thick after stirring in the pasta, don’t worry! Gradually add in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This helps maintain the creamy texture without watering it down. Just remember, it’s always easier to add more water than to take it away!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of?
This 20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be adapted for a vegan diet. Simply substitute the grass-fed butter with a dairy-free alternative. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re cooking for those with allergies, especially with soy sauce and miso, as they can contain gluten or other allergens.
Can I add different vegetables or proteins?
Definitely! This dish is versatile, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also mix in proteins such as cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu right before serving for a heartier meal. The more, the merrier!
20 Minute Miso Butter Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of that pasta water before draining!
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, melt the grass-fed unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic and golden.
- Stir in the white miso paste along with ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Whisk together until you achieve a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Add more reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess. Season with low-sodium soy sauce to taste.
- Dish out your pasta into bowls and top with thinly sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and chili oil crunch.
