Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest. This Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Herbs is a beautiful example of how a few basic ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying.
I’ve been guilty of going overboard in the kitchen—adding caramelized onions, roasted squash sauce, crumbled bacon, and even grated apple to what started as a simple mac and cheese. Delicious? Sure. Necessary? Maybe not. My inner food blogger loves experimenting, but there’s something special about keeping things unfussy.
Take this garlic butter spaghetti: buttery, garlicky, herb-filled pasta goodness that’s easy to make and universally loved. It doesn’t need to be anything more than what it is—comforting, flavorful, and straight-up crave-worthy.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is all about the basics done right. Butter and garlic create a rich, aromatic sauce, while fresh spinach and basil bring brightness and balance. Tossed with tender whole wheat spaghetti and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish proves that simple doesn’t mean boring.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. whole wheat spaghetti
- 6 tablespoons butter (plus more for serving, if desired)
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large bunch basil, chopped
- 1 large bunch baby spinach, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 3-5 minutes until soft and fragrant—watch closely so the garlic doesn’t brown or burn.
- Add the Greens: Stir in the chopped basil and spinach. Let them wilt slightly, just 1-2 minutes. Season with 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet (or transfer both to a large mixing bowl if needed). Season with black pepper and additional salt to taste. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the garlic butter and herbs.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with a pat of butter and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Enjoy immediately.
Tips
- Low and Slow: Don’t rush the garlic. Cooking it gently is key to preventing bitterness.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and spinach make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Leftovers Idea: Add a can of fire-roasted tomatoes and a splash of vegetable broth to leftovers for a quick, hearty veggie pasta.
Final Thoughts
In a world of complicated recipes and trendy ingredients, this Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Herbs is a breath of fresh air. It’s simple, satisfying, and exactly what you need when you’re craving a cozy, no-fuss dinner that hits the spot.
Go ahead—make the basics beautiful.