Indulge in a comforting yet simple Garlic Butter Pasta that transforms ordinary spaghetti into a rich, flavorful dish in just 20 minutes.
Packed with protein from parmesan and fiber from pasta, this recipe balances taste with nutrition.
With wholesome fats from butter and fresh herbs, it’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or easy meal prep.
Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Equipment
- Saucepot – 1 medium-sized
- Skillet – 1 medium
- Kitchen tongs – 1 pair
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 225 g pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or any preferred type)
- 4 tablespoons 52 g unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup 43 g freshly grated parmesan
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a medium saucepot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add your pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently, just until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the hot, drained pasta to the skillet with garlic butter. Pour in a small amount of the reserved pasta water and toss using tongs until the pasta is evenly coated. Add the remaining butter and continue tossing until fully melted, adding more pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle in the grated parmesan and chopped parsley. Toss thoroughly so the cheese melts and the herbs are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta while still warm. Optionally, add extra parmesan on top for a richer flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy a quick, indulgent, and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use 2–3 ounces (60–85 g) of pasta per person for the perfect portion.
- Salt the boiling water generously, similar to the taste of sea water, to enhance the pasta flavor.
- Reserve pasta water carefully; start with a small amount to create a creamy sauce, adding more only if necessary.
- Slice garlic thinly for gentle sautéing and avoid overpowering the dish.
- Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor and texture compared to pre-grated versions.
Chef’s Secrets: Tips To Perfect Flavor
The secret to a rich garlic butter pasta is balancing butter, garlic, and starchy pasta water.
Start by lightly sautéing garlic in butter to release its natural aroma without burning.
Always reserve some pasta water—it helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture that clings to each strand.
Toss continuously when adding cheese to ensure even melting, and finish with fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous note.
Using high-quality butter and freshly grated parmesan elevates the flavor dramatically, turning a simple dish into a restaurant-worthy meal.
Serving Suggestions: Creative Ideas To Enjoy
This pasta is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared tofu.
Drizzle extra olive oil or sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for added richness and texture.
This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, romantic meals, or even as a base for a pasta bar where everyone customizes their own toppings.
Storage Tips: Keep Pasta Fresh Longer
Store leftover garlic butter pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore the creamy sauce consistency.
Avoid freezing this pasta, as the butter and cheese can separate, resulting in a grainy texture upon reheating.
For best results, always reheat only the portion you plan to eat to maintain its flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while gluten-free options work well too.
Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for al dente texture before draining.
2. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep the heat at medium and sauté the garlic slowly until lightly golden. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as it releases its aroma.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Replace butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil, and use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. How do I get a creamy sauce without cream?
The starchy pasta water combined with melted butter and parmesan creates a naturally creamy sauce.
Gradually add water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Can I prepare this dish in advance for meal prep?
Yes, cook the pasta slightly al dente, then store it separately from the sauce.
Reheat together in a skillet, adding reserved pasta water to restore the creamy texture.
