Oh, garlic butter pasta – where have you been all my life? This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining the rich, savory depth of garlic with the creamy allure of butter. When I’m craving something that feels gourmet but doesn’t take hours to prepare, this is my go-to. It’s the epitome of comfort food, yet it feels fancy enough for a dinner party or a cozy date night in! Just imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, each strand coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce, with hints of spice from red pepper flakes and the nutty goodness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a delightful symphony of flavors that can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Trust me, once you try this garlic butter pasta, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite. It’s simple yet extraordinary, and I can’t wait to share my secrets with you!

Ingredients List

To create this mouthwatering garlic butter pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients, each carefully measured to ensure the perfect balance of flavors:

• 8 oz spaghetti: Opt for high-quality pasta for the best texture and flavor.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Use unsalted to control the saltiness and allow the rich butter flavor to shine.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! Mince it finely for maximum aroma.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Adjust to your spice preference – a little goes a long way!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for a creamy finish; avoid the pre-grated stuff.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
• Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors; start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
• Black pepper to taste: Freshly cracked pepper elevates the dish with its aromatic kick.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a fabulous meal that’s both simple and satisfying!

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Pasta

Ready to dive into the deliciousness of garlic butter pasta? Let’s break it down step by step to ensure you nail every aspect of this simple yet exquisite dish!

Cooking the Spaghetti

First, let’s talk spaghetti! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil; I usually go for about 4 quarts of water for 8 ounces of pasta. The salt is crucial here—it enhances the flavor of the spaghetti itself. Once the water is boiling, add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. You want it to have a slight bite, so keep an eye on it. Trust me, nobody wants mushy pasta!

Creating the Garlic Butter Sauce

While your spaghetti cooks, it’s time to whip up that heavenly garlic butter sauce. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Use a good-quality skillet; it makes a difference! Once the butter is bubbling and foamy, toss in the 6 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté gently for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant—don’t let it brown! Overcooked garlic turns bitter, and we want that sweet, aromatic flavor to shine through.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Now that your spaghetti is ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water! This liquid is your best friend for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the garlic butter, and toss everything together. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches that silky, luscious texture.

Final Touches Before Serving

To finish this dish off, stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. These not only add flavor but also a beautiful burst of color. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Give it one last toss to combine everything, and voilà! You’re ready to serve this delightful garlic butter pasta. Plate it up, maybe sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top, and enjoy every twirl of those delicious noodles!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This garlic butter pasta dish is a game-changer in the kitchen. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic and butter creates a savory sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent, making each bite a flavor explosion.
• Versatility: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite proteins or veggies, making it suitable for any palate.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.
• Impressive Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan transforms this simple dish into a stunning centerpiece for any table.

Trust me, once you experience the deliciousness of garlic butter pasta, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!

Tips for Success

To truly master this garlic butter pasta and make it shine, here are my top tips that will elevate your dish:

• Timing the Garlic: When sautéing the garlic, keep a close watch! It should become fragrant in about 1-2 minutes. If it starts to brown, quickly remove it from the heat to avoid that bitter taste. Trust me, you want that sweet, toasty aroma without the burnt flavor!
• Experiment with Proteins: If you’re looking to add some protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy pancetta. Just cook them separately and fold them in at the end for a heartier dish!
• Vegetable Boost: For a pop of color and nutrition, add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. They not only enhance the flavor but also make your plate look fabulous.
• Plating Perfection: When serving, twirl the pasta onto the plate using a fork or tongs for an elegant presentation. A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few parsley leaves on top will make it Instagram-worthy!
• Save the Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or water to revive that creamy texture!

These little tweaks will not only enhance the flavor of your garlic butter pasta but also make the cooking process even more enjoyable!

Variations

The beauty of garlic butter pasta is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are a few delightful variations to consider:

• Sautéed Vegetables: Toss in some colorful veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them in the garlic butter before adding the pasta.
• Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta. Cook them separately and fold them in at the end for that extra protein boost.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of parsley for a unique twist. They add fresh, aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
• Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving for a bright, refreshing finish that complements the richness of the butter.

Feel free to get creative! Each variation brings its own flair, making this garlic butter pasta dish a canvas for your culinary imagination.

Nutritional Information

When diving into the deliciousness of garlic butter pasta, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 plate) of this rich and savory dish:

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sugar: 1g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy every bite while being mindful of your dietary needs!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect garlic butter pasta? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my best tips:

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta for garlic butter pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape—fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Q2: How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to bring back that creamy texture.

Q3: What can I add for extra flavor?
You can elevate your garlic butter pasta by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp. A sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh herbs like basil can also brighten the dish!

Q4: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Garlic butter pasta is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the sauce separate from the pasta until you’re ready to eat to prevent it from getting soggy. Combine them right before serving for the best texture!

With these tips, you’ll be a garlic butter pasta pro in no time!

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, check out this Healthline article.

Garlic Butter Pasta: Elevate Dinner in 20 Minutes or Less

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and savory garlic butter pasta dish that combines the depth of garlic with the creaminess of butter, perfect for a quick gourmet meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter.
6. If the pasta is dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

• For a variation, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Garnish with lemon zest for brightness.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: garlic butter pasta, Italian pasta, quick pasta recipes