Garlic Butter Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Posted OnJuly 8, 2025
Sophia

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Garlic Butter Pasta: A Delectable Comfort Dish That Satisfies 🍝🧄✨

1. Introduction to Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta is the epitome of a quick and satisfying meal that brings comfort to your dinner table. This delightful dish combines perfectly cooked al dente pasta with a luscious garlic and butter sauce, creating an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love. The simplicity of this dish makes it a go-to for busy weeknights, while its rich flavor makes it suitable for a cozy dinner party. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delicious garlic butter pasta recipe that balances simplicity and deliciousness perfectly!

Delicious garlic butter pasta served in a bowl, perfect for a comforting meal.

2. Essential Ingredients for the Best Garlic Butter Pasta

To make this mouthwatering garlic butter pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients. Make sure to use high-quality butter and fresh garlic for the best flavor!

8 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
4 tablespoons butter (unsalted is recommended)
4 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced is best)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Garlic Butter Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente Perfection

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures that your garlic butter pasta has the perfect bite and doesn’t become mushy. Cooking the pasta correctly is key to a delightful dish. Want to try another pasta recipe? Check out this creamy tomato pasta recipe!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic for Maximum Flavor

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will create a bitter taste. This step creates the flavorful foundation for your garlic butter pasta. If you like garlic, you might also like this creamy garlic chicken recipe.

Sautéing garlic in butter for a rich flavor base in garlic butter pasta.

Step 3: Drain the Pasta, But Reserve the Water!

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold – it can be added later if you want a creamier garlic butter pasta sauce. The starch in the water helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a smoother and richer texture. Then, drain the pasta in a colander.

Draining pasta to prepare for mixing with flavorful garlic butter sauce.

Step 4: Combine, Toss, and Serve Your Delicious Garlic Butter Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss until the pasta is well coated, ensuring every strand is glistening with that delicious sauce. If needed, add the reserved pasta water little by little to achieve your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a harmonious dish. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving. For a bit of a kick, try this sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta.

Combining garlic butter with pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese for a tasty garlic butter pasta dish.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Garlic Butter Pasta

Your flavorful garlic butter pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth in a skillet and sauté until warmed through. Adding a little liquid prevents the pasta from drying out. This dish doesn’t freeze well, as the texture of the pasta can change upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or as leftovers within a few days.

5. Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp. The simplicity of the pasta makes it a versatile side dish or a light main course. For an elevated touch, consider adding sautéed vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, to your pasta. You can also find more dinner ideas here.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Pasta

What type of pasta is best for garlic butter pasta?

While spaghetti is a classic choice for garlic butter pasta, you can use virtually any type of pasta. Linguine, fettuccine, and penne are also excellent options. The key is to choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well.

Can I add other ingredients to this garlic butter pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add cooked proteins, such as chicken or shrimp, veggies like broccoli or mushrooms, or even a splash of lemon juice for added brightness. You can also incorporate herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor. Check out thischicken and broccoli recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this garlic butter pasta a gluten-free dish, simply swap out regular pasta for a gluten-free variant made from rice, quinoa, or legumes. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

How can I make my Garlic Butter Pasta richer?

For a richer and creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the garlic butter mixture. You can also increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add a knob of butter at the end for extra richness and flavor. Read more here.

7. Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Garlic Butter Pasta

In conclusion, Garlic Butter Pasta is a straightforward yet flavorful dish that can quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich buttery flavor and aromatic garlic, it’s a true comfort food that you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple dish to impress, this garlic butter pasta recipe is sure to deliver. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the heartwarming experience of homemade garlic butter pasta! For another flavor try creamy pesto checken pasta.

8. Call to Action

Enjoyed this garlic butter pasta recipe? Share your creation on social media and tag us! We’d love to see your culinary masterpiece. Don’t forget to leave a comment below, letting us know how your dish turned out! Your feedback helps us improve and share more delicious recipes. Try this Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe and share it.

9. Explore More Recipes

Looking for more delicious and easy recipes? Check out our collection of pasta dishes, sauces, and other comforting favorites to satisfy your cravings! From hearty lasagnas to quick stir-fries, we have something for everyone. Look at Best Taco Lasagna on the Word!