Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Name: Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces dried pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or any preferred type); 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); Salt and ground black pepper, to taste; ¾ cup reserved pasta water; Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Growing up, my grandfather had a way of turning simple ingredients into something magical. One of my fondest food memories is sitting at the kitchen table as he prepared a quick but satisfying dish—warm, buttery noodles tossed with garlic and Parmesan. It was comfort food at its best, and it took only minutes to make. Now, I’m excited to share this beginner-friendly Garlic Butter Pasta recipe with you. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a reliable go-to meal, this dish is simple, flavorful, and ready in about 20 minutes.

Why This Garlic Butter Pasta is Special

This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers rich flavor and a creamy, buttery texture. It’s also a budget-friendly meal that you can make using pantry staples. Plus, it serves as the perfect base for customization—add vegetables, proteins, or extra seasonings to make it your own. Whether served as a main dish or a quick side, this pasta is always a winner.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Pasta: Any variety works, but long noodles like spaghetti or linguine help the buttery sauce coat each strand beautifully. Short pasta like penne or fusilli also holds the sauce well.

Butter: The foundation of the dish, providing a rich and creamy texture. Both salted and unsalted butter work, depending on your preference.
Garlic: The star of the show, adding depth and a fragrant aroma. Fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the creamy consistency and adds a nutty, umami flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, but pre-grated works too.

Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key to balancing flavors. Use sea salt or kosher salt for a clean taste.
Pasta Water (Reserved): Helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles, preventing dryness.

Ingredient Substitutions:

Vegan Option: Swap butter for olive oil or dairy-free butter and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta.
Extra Flavor Boost: Add red pepper flakes for heat, lemon zest for freshness, or a dash of soy sauce for an umami kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ¾ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently, stirring frequently. Be careful not to brown the garlic—it should be fragrant, not burnt.

Step 3: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss with kitchen tongs. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the butter.

Step 4: Gradually add a few spoonfuls of reserved pasta water, tossing continuously. This will create a silky, creamy sauce. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness.

Step 5: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and optional chopped parsley.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Don’t rinse the pasta after draining. The starch on the noodles helps the sauce cling better.

Keep the heat low while cooking garlic. High heat can burn garlic quickly, turning it bitter.
Use pasta water sparingly. Add it gradually to achieve the perfect sauce consistency without making the pasta watery.
Best eaten fresh. While leftovers can be stored, pasta dishes always taste best right after cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic butter pasta is satisfying on its own, but it pairs well with many dishes. Here are some ideas:

Protein Additions: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu.
Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms add color and nutrients.

Side Dishes: Serve with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or butter to refresh the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing: Not recommended, as pasta can become mushy when thawed.

Now that you have this easy garlic butter pasta recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you add your own twist? Let me know in the comments and share your dish with friends. Cooking should be fun, simple, and delicious—this recipe is a great place to start!

FAQ About Garlic Butter Pasta

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, olive oil can be used as a substitute, but the dish will have a slightly different flavor. Butter provides a richer, creamier texture, while olive oil gives a lighter taste.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great choices because they allow the sauce to coat evenly. Short pasta like penne or fusilli also works well, especially for a heartier version.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic over low heat and stir frequently. Garlic burns quickly at high temperatures, which can give the dish a bitter taste. If needed, remove the pan from the heat for a few seconds to cool it down.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can make it ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or extra butter to revive the sauce.

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