Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sometimes the best meals are the simplest, and Garlic Butter Pasta is proof of that. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s rich, savory, and endlessly comforting. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish, or even a base for add-ins like shrimp or vegetables, this recipe is versatile and always satisfying. I once tossed in a handful of spinach at the end, and it wilted beautifully into the sauce, adding freshness without complicating the dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, Garlic Butter Pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to when you need something fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
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Garlic Butter Pasta – Simple, Comforting, and Delicious
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter.
- Pour in reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and lemon zest if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality butter for the richest flavor.
- Add cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Can be made with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta – Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work well, but any pasta shape will do.
Butter – The heart of the sauce, giving it a rich, silky texture.
Garlic – Fresh garlic infuses the butter with savory depth and aroma.
Olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds extra flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that bring balance.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle spicy kick.
Fresh parsley – A garnish that brightens the dish with color and freshness.
Lemon juice (optional) – A squeeze of citrus adds brightness and cuts the richness.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Meanwhile, melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce clings perfectly to the noodles. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Finish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4. Cooking and prep together take about 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it reheats well.
Variations and Customizations
Shrimp Garlic Butter Pasta – Add sautéed shrimp for a seafood upgrade.
Vegetable Boost – Toss in spinach, broccoli, or zucchini.
Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Herb Lovers’ Style – Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano.
Spicy Kick – Use extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Cheesy Twist – Mix in mozzarella or pecorino along with Parmesan.
Low-Carb Option – Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Mushroom Garlic Butter Pasta – Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for earthy flavor.
Protein Add-In – Mix in grilled chicken or Italian sausage.
Mediterranean Style – Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just adjust the added salt to taste.
What pasta shape works best?
Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine, but short pasta works too.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter and skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
How do I prevent garlic from burning?
Cook it gently over medium heat and stir constantly.
Can I make this ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep garlic butter in advance and store it.
What sides go well with this dish?
Garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet to coat the pasta evenly.
Can I skip Parmesan?
Yes, but it adds depth—try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Can I add white wine?
Absolutely, deglaze the skillet with a splash before tossing in pasta.
Does it work as a side dish?
Yes, it pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, or seafood.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple yet luxurious recipe that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something delicious. With its buttery sauce, fragrant garlic, and cheesy finish, it’s comfort food at its best. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with protein and vegetables, this pasta is endlessly versatile and always satisfying.
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