Miso Pasta

This Miso Pasta recipe is a delicious combination of rich flavors. Blending the umami goodness of miso with creamy butter and parmesan, it is a perfect, effortless and satisfying meal. 

About the Recipe

Make this miso pasta on a night when you are looking for something unique yet comforting. The flavor combination of the garlic, butter and white miso is one that will elevate your pasta game in a hurry. 

If you've only used miso for miso soup, you're missing out! The umami flavor of white miso paste is great in a variety of dishes, but it's so delicious in a creamy sauce! This dish is similar to cacio e Pepe, but with another umami element.

This recipe is quick, flavorful and will surely impress. It is perfect for a cozy dinner for two, weeknight dinner, or a gathering with friends. 

If you are looking for more pasta recipes, check out our: Cheesy Orzo, Gnocchi Gorgonzola, Saffron Pasta, or Tuna Carbonara.

Jump to:

• About the Recipe
• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Directions
• Expert Tips and Tricks
• Kitchen Equipment
• Recipe Substitutions/Variations
• What To Serve With
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Recipe Storage and Reheating
• Other Recipes to Try
• Miso Pasta

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Flavorful - The white miso, garlic, butter, and parmesan create a unique blend of flavors. Combined with pasta and a sprinkle of black pepper, it is a delicious and distinctive flavor profile that will have you coming back for more!

Quick - With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for any time you want a satisfying and delicious meal without the hassle.

Versatile - This recipe creates the perfect base for you to get creative and add in some of your favorite ingredients. You can easily add veggies, protein, or swap out the cheese to suit your individual taste.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need for this pasta dish: 

• Pasta - Use one pound of your choice of pasta shape and size. 
• Butter - I prefer to use unsalted butter for this recipe.
• Garlic - Use fresh minced garlic.
• White miso - This is a thick paste you can find at most grocery stores or specialty Asian markets.
• Parmesan cheese - Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Black pepper

Directions

Let's make this miso pasta recipe together! 

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, add pasta and cook al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: In a large saucepan, heat the butter and garlic over medium heat. Sauté for 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add the miso and stir well.

Step 3: Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Toss the mixture vigorously until the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Top with additional parmesan cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Here are some expert tips to make this simple miso butter pasta recipe: 

Reserve pasta water - Save some of the pasta cooking water before draining it. This starchy water can help to thicken the sauce and make it cling to the pasta better.

Freshly grate parmesan - Opt for freshly grated parmesan for an extra burst of flavor. The difference in taste is worth it!

Complete the meal - Serve this meal with a green side salad with fresh vegetables and a slice of crusty bread.

Make it creamy - Add a splash of heavy cream when tossing everything together. It's a little indulgence that takes this dish to the next level.

Kitchen Equipment

Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this recipe. You can find all of these products on Amazon.

Large Pot - A large pot is essential in every kitchen to make soups, boil pasta, and so many other things! 

Large skillet - You'll want a high quality large skillet with high sides.

Recipe Substitutions/Variations

Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this dish.

White miso - If you're out of white miso, you can try using yellow miso as a substitute. It'll bring a slightly different flavor, but still delicious.

Parmesan cheese - Experiment with different cheeses. Pecorino or Asiago can offer a unique taste or try a blend of your favorite cheeses.

Additions - Toss in some sautéed shiitake mushrooms or spinach for an earthy touch. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein packed option. 

Pasta - I used regular pasta in this recipe, but you could use brown rice pasta or rice noodles.

What To Serve With

Here are some recipes to serve alongside this flavorful pasta dish:

Fire Roasted Tomatoes - These Fire Roasted Tomatoes are a delicious recipe you have to make! Sliced tomatoes are tossed with olive oil and Italian seasoning, then roasted in a hot oven until they are perfectly charred and delicious.

Maple Hasselback Butternut Squash - With tender roasted squash and a cinnamon maple glaze, this is a great savory and sweet side dish. This one is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas! Plus, it's pretty easy.

Italian Cheese Bread - Cheesy garlic herb butter pull apart bread is the perfect easy appetizer! This easy cheesy bread appetizer is perfect for any size gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Storage and Reheating

Here are storage instructions for this easy recipe.

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container and eat leftovers within 4-5 days.

Freezer Storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe, airtight container and keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat this recipe is to heat in a skillet with a little olive oil over low heat until warm. You can also reheat in the microwave.

Other Recipes to Try