Sauté minced garlic in butter before adding the sauce
Add grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half
Season with black pepper
Add salt only after tasting
Mix in a pinch of nutmeg
Add Italian seasoning or dried basil
Stir in fresh parsley
Add red pepper flakes for heat
Use pasta water to loosen and improve texture
Add cream cheese for extra richness
Stir in a little mozzarella or fontina
Add cooked mushrooms
Add sautéed onions or shallots
Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon
Add roasted garlic
Finish with lemon zest or a small squeeze of lemon juice
Simmer gently to blend flavors
Toss with freshly cooked pasta immediately
Add spinach or peas for extra flavor and texture