Name: Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

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I make this Garlic Butter Pasta when I want something simple, comforting, and incredibly flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a quick dish made with tender pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with herbs and cheese for a satisfying meal that feels both cozy and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe comes together with just a handful of pantry staples. The buttery garlic sauce coats every strand of pasta perfectly, creating a silky and comforting texture. I also appreciate how versatile it is—I can serve it as a main dish for a light dinner or as a side alongside chicken, seafood, or vegetables. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser at my table. Garlic Butter Pasta

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti or linguine
unsalted butter
fresh garlic, minced
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)
fresh parsley, chopped
grated parmesan cheese

Directions

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, I reserve about a cup of pasta water to help create a silky sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, I melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and sauté it gently until fragrant, making sure not to let it brown.

Once the pasta is drained, I transfer it directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. I toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta. I season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.

I finish the dish by stirring in freshly chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese, tossing until everything is well combined. I serve it immediately while it’s warm and glossy.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken to make it more filling. When I want extra richness, I stir in a splash of heavy cream. For a brighter flavor, I squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice or add lemon zest. I also enjoy mixing in steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a small splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each round to maintain a smooth texture. Garlic Butter Pasta

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

I often use whatever pasta I have on hand. Penne, fettuccine, or even angel hair work well with the garlic butter sauce.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

I cook the garlic over medium or medium-low heat and stir constantly. If the butter starts to brown too quickly, I lower the heat immediately.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

I substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese option.

What can I serve with garlic butter pasta?

I like serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or seafood for a complete meal.

Can I make it ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I can cook the pasta ahead and store it separately. When ready to serve, I reheat it gently with freshly made garlic butter sauce for the best flavor.

Conclusion

I always return to this Garlic Butter Pasta when I want a reliable, comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, making it one of my favorite go-to recipes for busy days or relaxed dinners at home.