Best Garlic Spaghetti

• Garlic · divided6 cloves
• . Extra-virgin Olive Oil · divided¼ cup
• . Panko Bread Crumbs½ cup
• . Crushed Red Pepper Flakes¼ teaspoon
• Kosher Salt
• . Dry Spaghetti1 pound
• . Butter1 tablespoon
• Juice and Zest of 1/2 Lemon
• . Freshly Grated Parmesan (optional)⅓ cup
• . Freshly Chopped Parsley⅓ cup

Method

1. 01

   Mince 3 garlic cloves. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 3 tbsp olive oil. Add breadcrumbs and minced garlic and season with crushed red pepper flakes and salt. Cook until bread crumbs or golden and garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes. Remove breadcrumbs onto a paper towel lined plate and wipe out skillet.

2. 02

   Thinly slice remaining 3 cloves garlic. Place a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring to a boil. Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions, reserving at least 1 cup pasta water.

3. 03

   Meanwhile, return skillet to medium heat and add remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. When butter is melted, add sliced garlic. Cook until garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes. Lower heat to medium-low until pasta is done cooking.

4. 04

   Add pasta to skillet and toss. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan if using. Add pasta water to thicken sauce as needed. Stir in parsley and 3/4 of the bread crumbs and toss. Top with remaining bread crumbs and serve immediately.