Garlic Butter Pasta with White Beans

Cook pasta in heavily salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 90 seconds until fragrant — do not brown.

Add white beans. Use a fork to smash about a third of them directly in the pan to create creaminess.

Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss vigorously, adding pasta water a splash at a time until sauce coats every strand.

Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and parsley. Toss until butter melts and sauce is glossy.

Season with salt and pepper. Finish with Parmesan if using. Serve immediately.