Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
If your idea of pure pasta bliss involves buttery strands swirling with fresh garlic and a flurry of Parmesan, this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is about to become your go-to comfort dish. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s creamy, silky, and positively glowing with the irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic. Whether you’re a pasta purist or someone who likes to pile on protein or veggies, this simple yet dazzling recipe brings big Italian flavor to your table with minimal effort and everyday ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe truly shines with a handful of classic, pantry-friendly ingredients that let each flavor stand out. Every item here works hard to add depth, creaminess, color, or a touch of heat, so don’t skip the basics—they all play a crucial role in the final dish!
- Spaghetti or Pasta of Choice (12 ounces): The foundation for our saucy mix—choose your favorite shape for a different texture each time.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Rich and creamy, it’s the magical base that makes the sauce melt luxuriously over every noodle.
- Garlic Cloves, Minced (6): The star player, bringing bold, aromatic flavor that defines this recipe.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For those who crave a gentle kick—add more or less to suit your spice level.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Savory and nutty, it melts in for that creamy signature finish.
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (¼ cup): Bright and herbaceous, it livens up the entire dish and adds fresh color.
- Salt and Black Pepper to Taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every other ingredient.
- Reserved Pasta Water (½ cup): This starchy liquid is the secret to creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a big pot of generously salted water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cook just until al dente—the noodles should be tender yet have a pleasant bite. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of that starchy water with a mug or measuring cup. Drain the pasta and set it aside as you move to the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In the same pot (no extra pans needed!), melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes, just until the garlic releases its aromatic fragrance—watch closely so it doesn’t turn golden or crispy, as we want it soft and sweet, not bitter.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta straight back into the pot with the garlic butter. Immediately pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together. This little bit of liquid helps the butter and garlic beautifully cling to every noodle, transforming everything into a luscious, glossy tangle.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Parsley
While the pasta’s still piping hot, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Give it a good toss—watch the cheese melt into a creamy coating, and enjoy the pop of green from the herbs. Season with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go, until the flavors are just right for you.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Dish up your Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe immediately, topping each plate with extra Parmesan and a little more parsley if you like. This is pasta at its most swoon-worthy—hot, fragrant, and ready to comfort!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Dress up each plate with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a shower of fresh parsley. For a lovely crunch, add toasted pine nuts or a dusting of lemon zest for brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil never hurts!
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad for freshness, or some garlicky sautéed broccoli. Freshly baked bread or classic garlic knots make it a complete comfort meal. If you want more protein, consider grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions twisted into elegant nests with tongs for a special touch. Or, for family-style fun, bring the entire pot to the table and let guests serve themselves. For a weeknight upgrade, top with roasted vegetables or pan-seared scallops for restaurant-worthy flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next day’s lunch especially tempting!
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions of this pasta for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, though texture may soften a bit. For best results, freeze without adding final garnishes—add those upon serving.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, splashing in a little water or broth to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley to wake up the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use any type Main Course, Side Dish
Absolutely! While spaghetti gives that classic twirl, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, penne, or any shape you have on hand—the sauce loves clinging to every curve.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply use your favorite vegan butter and a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is another great option for cheesy flavor. The results are equally delicious and completely plant-based!
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! This Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is the perfect base for additions like sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, pan-fried tofu, or even roasted chickpeas. Toss them in at the end for a hearty meal.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
No worries! Dried parsley works in a pinch, or substitute with chopped fresh basil, chives, or even a handful of baby spinach stirred in right at the end.
Is the pasta spicy with red pepper flakes?
The heat is quite gentle, but you’re totally in control—add as much or as little as you like, or skip it entirely if you’re serving kids or spice-sensitive friends.
Final Thoughts
Few dishes deliver pure comfort and flavor like this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe—it’s as simple as it is irresistible. I hope you’ll give it a try, make it your own, and share it at your table again and again. Grab your favorite bowl and dig in!
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Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Pasta that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner at home. This flavorful dish is a classic favorite, combining al dente pasta with a rich garlic butter sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Spaghetti or Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt butter in a pot, add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return pasta to pot, add reserved water, toss with butter and garlic. Mix in Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with extra cheese and parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or steamed veggies for a heartier meal.
- You can also use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
