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Amazing 25-Minute The Old Spaghetti Factory’s Clam Sauce

The Old Spaghetti Factory's Clam Sauce

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Recreate the famous, garlicky, buttery white clam sauce from The Old Spaghetti Factory right in your own kitchen. This recipe brings back cherished memories with every spoonful of pasta.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 2 (6.5 ounce) cans chopped or minced clams, drained (reserve clam juice)
  • 1/2 cup reserved clam juice
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  4. If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Add the reserved clam juice to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in the drained clams and heavy cream. Heat through gently, about 2 minutes. Do not boil.
  7. Toss the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the clam sauce.
  8. Add half of the chopped parsley. Toss well to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Richard suggests using good quality canned clams; they often have the best flavor for this sauce.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of clam juice you add.
  • Taste the sauce before adding extra salt, as canned clams can sometimes be salty.

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