Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate quick and comforting dish, made with just four ingredients and ready in only 20 minutes. Perfect as a main or a side, this buttery pasta is tossed in a silky garlic sauce and finished with Parmesan cheese for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Made in about 20 minutes with just a few pantry staples.
- Flavorful & Comforting: Garlic, butter, and cheese combine to create a rich, satisfying taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses minimal ingredients, most of which are probably in your kitchen.
- Customizable: Serve as-is or add protein, vegetables, or your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or your favorite type)
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 3/4 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, just until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss with tongs to coat in the garlic butter. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, then add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water, a spoonful at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish & Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with more Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t rinse your pasta after cooking—the heat and starch help the sauce cling better.
- Use low heat when sautéing garlic to avoid burning it.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water and a little extra butter if needed.
Variations
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, shrimp, or tofu.
- Add Veggies: Try broccoli, peas, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost.
Serving Suggestions This garlic butter pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled or baked chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- A fresh green salad
- Crusty garlic bread
Whether you serve it as a main dish or alongside a larger meal, this Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple, flavorful classic you’ll want to make again and again.