When you’re craving comfort but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Garlic Butter Pasta delivers. It’s simple, rich, and full of flavor from sautéed garlic, butter, and a touch of Parmesan. Perfect for weeknights, late dinners, or anytime you want something that tastes indulgent without being fussy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Pasta
This pasta is proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most comforting dishes.
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Uses pantry staples
- Rich, garlicky, and full of flavor
- Perfect base for proteins or vegetables
- Great as a side or main dish
- Family-friendly and foolproof
I came up with this dish years ago on a night when I was out of sauce but still wanted something satisfying. That first forkful—glossy noodles coated in butter, garlic, and Parmesan—made it an instant classic in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, high-quality ingredients make all the difference here.
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein
- Stir in spinach or kale for a green boost
- Use olive oil for part of the butter to lighten it up
- Add a splash of cream for a silky texture
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan for a richer flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe comes together fast, so have everything prepped and ready to go.
- Cook the pasta.
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain. - Melt the butter.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts to foam and turn golden at the edges. - Add garlic and seasonings.
Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. - Combine pasta and sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce. Add a splash of pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles. - Finish with cheese and herbs.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Toss well and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve.
Plate immediately and serve with lemon wedges for brightness, if desired.
Quick reminders before serving:
- Don’t brown the garlic—it should stay fragrant, not bitter
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy texture
- Add pasta water gradually for perfect sauce consistency
- Serve hot for the best buttery flavor
Expert Tips for Success
This simple dish is all about timing and balance.
- Cook pasta just shy of al dente—it finishes in the sauce
- Use good-quality butter for rich flavor
- Add garlic once butter foams to avoid burning
- Pair with Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls for a full meal
- Sprinkle a little lemon zest for freshness
- Toss quickly once Parmesan melts to keep it creamy
Mastering these small steps turns basic ingredients into something truly special.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Pasta works as a side or a standalone meal.
- Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced dinner
- Garnish with parsley and cracked pepper for presentation
Every bite is buttery, garlicky, and completely comforting.
Storing and Reheating
This pasta reheats beautifully with just a bit of care.
How to Store It
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Cool completely before refrigerating
- Avoid freezing—it may dry out the sauce
- Keep lemon wedges separate
How to Reheat It
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or butter
- Stir often to redistribute the sauce
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each
- Add fresh parsley or Parmesan before serving
It keeps its creamy, garlicky flavor perfectly the next day.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 475 | Protein: 13g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 58g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Sodium: 240mg | Cholesterol: 45mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 2mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free pasta and the rest of the ingredients stay the same.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
You can use half butter and half olive oil for a lighter yet flavorful version.
What can I add to make it more filling?
Chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or mushrooms fit perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Pasta proves that sometimes, the best meals come from the simplest ingredients. It’s a quick, delicious comfort food that’s as satisfying on a busy weeknight as it is at a family dinner.
- Use fresh garlic for the boldest flavor
- Finish with lemon for brightness
- Enjoy hot for the perfect texture
Simple, buttery, and full of heart—this pasta is a guaranteed favorite every time.
Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until it starts to foam and turn golden at the edges.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly in the garlic‑butter sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss well.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired for brightness.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest texture. Add pasta water gradually to help the sauce cling.
- Garlic should be cooked just until fragrant, not browned. Optional lemon wedges brighten the dish.
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