The first whiff of roasted garlic wafting through my kitchen is always an invitation to sit down and savor something special. On one of those cozy evenings when I craved comfort, I decided to get creative, transforming simple pantry staples into a luxurious dish: Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori with Crispy Shallots. The allure of creamy miso and the nutty goodness of brown butter come together to wrap each piece of tender pasta in warmth, making it perfect for any night where a dash of restaurant flair is in order.
Not only is this delightful dish easy to whip up after a busy day, but it also elevates your dinner routine to something truly memorable—rich flavors and inviting textures sure to impress anyone at the table. So, let’s dive in and bring a taste of gourmet dining to our homes without the fuss!
Why is Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori a Must-Try?
Irresistible Comfort: This recipe combines a cozy, creamy sauce with the deep flavors of roasted garlic and sweet miso, promising a warm embrace in each bite.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy gourmet quality without hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out the radiatori for your favorite pasta or add in seasonal veggies for a personalized touch—dinner can be whatever you fancy!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Friends and family will rave about this unique combination, making it a hit at gatherings or romantic dinners.
Elevated Cooking: Impress without the stress; even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-level meal right at home.
Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Radiatori Pasta – This unique shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Salt – To taste, essential for enhancing all the flavors.
For the Roasted Garlic
• Garlic (2 bulbs) – Roasting mellows the flavor, adding a delicious sweetness.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Ideal for roasting garlic, enhancing richness in the dish.
For the Sauce
• Butter (2 tbsp) – Brown until nutty for that toasty flavor in the sauce.
• Sweet Brown Miso Paste (2 tbsp) – Adds umami and depth to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates the luxurious creamy base; substitute with plant-based cream for a vegan option.
• Lemon Juice (Juice of 1/2 lemon, optional) – Brightens the dish, balancing the richness beautifully.
• Parmigiano Reggiano (1/3 cup, finely grated) – Adds a savory, salty kick.
For the Garnish
• Chives (1 tbsp, chopped) – Freshness and color for a beautiful presentation.
• Crispy Shallots (1/4 cup) – Provides crunch and a burst of flavor on top.
This Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori with Crispy Shallots is easy to prepare, yet feels luxurious enough to impress your guests!
How to Make Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori
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Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the tops off the garlic bulbs, drizzle with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and roast for 40-50 minutes until soft and caramelized. Let them cool before use.
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Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your radiatori pasta, cooking until al dente, following package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes).
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Prepare Sauce: In a sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it bubbles and turns a beautiful caramel brown. Stir in the sweet brown miso paste and roasted garlic, mixing well.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream to the sauté pan; let it simmer on low heat. Strain the cooked pasta and toss it with the sauce. Gradually add up to 1/4 cup of pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess.
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Finish and Serve: If using, mix in the lemon juice and grated Parmigiano. Plate your pasta and sprinkle with chives, crispy shallots, and any extra cheese you fancy.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the garlic and prepare the creamy miso sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, be sure to let the garlic cool completely before sealing, which helps prevent moisture buildup. When it’s time to serve, simply cook the radiatori pasta, reheat the sauce gently in a pan, and toss everything together with a splash of pasta water for that silky texture. This way, you can enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort, even on the busiest weeknights!
What to Serve with Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing your creamy pasta with delightful sides and drinks that enhance its luxurious flavors.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy richness, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect vehicle to scoop up the delicious sauce, adding a satisfying crunch and extra flavor to your meal.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers brings a sweet earthiness that pairs beautifully with the umami of miso.
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White Wine Spritzer: A light and crisp white wine spritzer can enhance the meal’s flavors, offering a refreshing sip between bites for a wonderful dining experience.
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Creamy Polenta: Silky, creamy polenta provides a wonderful base, echoing the sauce’s richness while adding a comforting, hearty element to your plate.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet serves as a vibrant palate cleanser that refreshes the senses after enjoying the savory pasta dish.
These pairing options create a balanced meal that showcases your Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori while inviting a variety of flavors and textures to the table!
How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the creamy sauce fresh without curdling.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sturdy container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta on low heat, adding a little pasta water or cream to restore its creamy texture. Stir occasionally and avoid overheating to maintain the sauce’s richness.
Airtight Guidance: Ensure your storage container is airtight to prevent freezer burn, which can affect the delicious flavors of your Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori.
Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful dish to suit your tastebuds!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the radiatori pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
- Vegan Delight: Swap the butter and heavy cream for vegan alternatives while keeping the rich flavors intact.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach or kale for a healthy twist and a pop of color in each bite.
- Flavor Boost: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, enhancing the richness of the miso.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in toasted sesame oil alongside the olive oil for an added layer of nutty flavor.
- Protein Packed: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp to transform this dish into a satisfying protein-rich meal.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant finish that brightens up the dish.
- Cheese Swap: Use feta or goat cheese as a topping for a tangy twist that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Let your imagination run wild in the kitchen—these variations will surely take your Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori to the next level!
Expert Tips for Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori
• Watch the Butter: Keep an eye on the butter while browning; it should turn caramel-colored without burning, which can ruin the flavor.
• Pasta Water Wizardry: If your sauce becomes stringy or thick, add reserved pasta water little by little. This Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori is all about a silky finish!
• Garlic Gold: Roast the garlic ahead of time and store it in the fridge; it can elevate various dishes and saves you time during dinner preparation.
• Cream Substitutes: For a lighter option, consider substituting heavy cream with a plant-based cream, ensuring it still complements the miso beautifully.
• Garnish Effect: Don’t skimp on the crispy shallots; they add delightful crunch and elevate the overall presentation of your dish.
Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori Recipe FAQs
What type of garlic should I use for roasting?
You can use regular garlic bulbs for roasting; aim for firm, unblemished bulbs without dark spots. Look for ones that feel heavy in your hand, indicating they are fresh.
How should I store leftover Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents the creamy sauce from curdling and keeps the flavors intact.
Can I freeze Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a sturdy container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm gently on the stove; add a splash of cream to revive its creamy texture.
What if my sauce became stringy or clumpy?
If you encounter a stringy or clumpy sauce, don’t worry! Gradually add pasta water—up to 1/4 cup—while stirring over low heat. This will help re-emulsify the sauce and achieve that silky finish.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori is vegetarian. For gluten-free options, simply substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties. Always check your miso paste for any allergens if you’re cooking for someone with food sensitivity.
Savory Brown Butter Miso & Roasted Garlic Radiatori Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the tops off the garlic bulbs, drizzle with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and roast for 40-50 minutes until soft and caramelized. Let them cool before use.
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your radiatori pasta, cooking until al dente, following package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes).
- Prepare Sauce: In a sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it bubbles and turns a beautiful caramel brown. Stir in the sweet brown miso paste and roasted garlic, mixing well.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream to the sauté pan; let it simmer on low heat. Strain the cooked pasta and toss it with the sauce. Gradually add up to 1/4 cup of pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess.
- Finish and Serve: If using, mix in the lemon juice and grated Parmigiano. Plate your pasta and sprinkle with chives, crispy shallots, and any extra cheese you fancy.