Let’s talk about comfort food. Specifically Garlic Butter pasta. What is pasta? Is it the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good movie and big bowl? Think of it as the simpler, quicker, even MORE satisfying cousin of creamy Alfredo. What are some of the best recipes for a healthy snack? I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Is it the kind of recipe that’s so easy, you can practically make it with your eyes closed…though I have a few. Wouldn’t recommend it! My kids beg me to make it at least once a week, and honestly, I’m not complaining. Is this pure, garlicky, buttery bliss?

What is garlic butter pasta?

Garlic butter pasta is essentially a hug in the bowl. Think of it as perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a luscious sauce made from melted butter. Garlic, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s simple, yes, but that’ s where its beauty lies. What is the adult version of buttered noodles? What is the difference between garlic and Parmesan? This isn’t some fancy, complicated Italian dish. It’s honest, comforting, and totally customizable. What is the kind of meal you can whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry? Is it quick, easy, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy?

Why do I love this recipe?

Seriously, where do I even begin? What I love most about this garlic butter pasta is that it hits ALL the right notes. It’s incredibly flavorful – the garlic and butter create this amazing savory base, and the Parmesan adds just the right amount of saltiness and umami. It’s unbelievably simple to make. We’re talking 20 minutes, tops. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. The ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t be breaking the bank to make a delicious and satisfying meal. And finally, it’s versatile! You can add protein like shrimp or chicken, toss in some veggies like spinach or broccoli, or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. It’s truly your canvas to create a pasta masterpiece. This garlic butter pasta is the MVP of my kitchen, and I know it will be in yours too!

How do I make garlic butter pasta?

Quick Overview

How do I make garlic butter pasta? How do you cook pasta until it’s al dente? While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a pan, sauté generous amount of garlic until golden brown. What is the best way to serve Parmesan cheese with pasta water? Is there a creamy consistency to Is it so easy to do? What is the best way to cook garlic? Trust me, you’ve got this!

Ingredients

What is the Garlic Butter Sauce?
12 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – I always use good quality butter for the best flavor!
6-8 cloves garlic, minced – Don’t be shy with the garlic; it’s the star of the show.
12 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grized is always best for flavor and texture.
14 cup reserved pasta water – This is the secret ingredient for a creamy sauce.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Season generously!
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat.

For the Pasta:
I usually use spaghetti, but I can use any long pasta.
Salt for pasta water – Don’t forget to salt your pasta. It flavors the pasta from the inside out.

How do I get

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Remove from heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. When draining pasta, reserve 14 cup of pasta water. That starchy water is liquid gold!

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. How do you avoid burning garlic? I always keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat. Add the Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water. Stir well. Toss again until cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Where does magic happen?

Step 4: Season and Serve

Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy every single bite!

What should I serve it with?

This garlic butter pasta is delicious on its own, but it’s also great with a variety of sides.

What is a good weeknight meal?What are some good side salads with a light vinaigrette? It adds a bit of freshness and balances out the richness of the pasta.

For a More Substantial Meal:What are some good ways to add protein to a meal?

For a Vegetarian Option:If you have steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted vegetables, toss in a little olive oil. I love adding roasted asparagus or cherry tomatoes. It adds color, flavor, and nutrients.

For a Romantic Dinner:Serve it with a crusty baguette for soaking up all that delicious sauce and your favorite cocktail. Is it a crowd pleaser?

Is it good to serve this with Garlic Bread on the side? I like to sprinkle fresh parsley on top of everything. It’s a nice touch.

How do you make garlic butter pasta?

What are some ways to take garlic butter pasta to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?

Don’t overcook garlic!Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the whole dish. Sauté it gently over medium heat until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. If you see it starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat or remove the pan from heat.

What is the best butter to use?Since butter is key ingredient, use a good quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. I find that European-style butter adds a richer, creamier flavor.

Don’t skimp on Parmesan: It’sHow do you use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture? Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly. What is Parmesan and why?

How much Pasta Water should I reserve?How do you make a creamy pasta sauce? Don’t forget to reserve at least 14 cup before draining pasta. If you need more, you can always add more until you reach your desired goal.

Season Generously:Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to add salt, especially if you’re using unsalted butter. The salt helps to bring out the flavors of the garlic and Parmesan.

Add a little lemon juice: Add 1 cup of water. For a bright and tangy flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. It cuts through the richness of the butter and adds a refreshing element to the dish.

One time, I accidentally burned the garlic while making this, and the whole dish was ruined! I learned my lesson the hard way. Now, I always keep a close eye on the garlic and stir it frequently.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your garlic butter pasta:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store it as soon as possible after cooking to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer Instructions: While you can freeze garlic butter pasta, it’s not ideal. The sauce can become grainy when thawed. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat the pasta, add a splash of milk or water to the container to help loosen the sauce. Microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or water as needed.

Glaze Timing Advice: The sauce tends to dry out a bit when reheated, so you might want to add a little extra butter or Parmesan cheese when reheating to restore its creaminess. I usually add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. I recommend using a brand that holds its shape well when cooked. You might also need to add a little extra pasta water to the sauce, as gluten-free pasta tends to absorb more liquid.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions. You can also add some cooked chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost.

Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?

While fresh garlic is always best, you can use dried garlic in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried garlic powder for every 2 cloves of fresh garlic. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can! Use a dairy-free butter substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast has a cheesy, nutty flavor that works well in this dish. You can also add a splash of dairy-free milk or cream to the sauce for extra creaminess.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a generous pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or drizzle with chili oil before serving. You can also add a finely chopped chili pepper to the garlic while sautéing.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my absolute favorite garlic butter Pasta Recipe! It’s simple, it’s quick, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. And honestly, who can resist perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce? If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta recipes for more delicious and easy meal ideas. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and be sure to rate the recipe if you love it!