Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta – Simple Weeknight Dish

Simple ingredients, big flavor. This Garlic Butter Pasta is the ultimate weeknight go-to: buttery, garlicky, and endlessly comforting. Made with pantry staples like pasta, fresh garlic, butter, and Parmesan, it’s ready in under 20 minutes and tastes like something you’d find at a cozy trattoria.

Whether you’re cooking solo or feeding your family, this recipe brings elegance to simplicity—with a silky sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

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What Is Garlic Butter Pasta?

Garlic Butter Pasta is a minimalist Italian-style dish where butter and garlic create a flavorful coating for just-cooked pasta. A dash of Parmesan, a splash of pasta water, and optionally a pinch of herbs or chili flakes turn basic ingredients into something crave-worthy.

It’s:

• A one-pan meal ready in 15–20 minutes

• Budget-friendly and kid-approved

• Easily customizable with proteins, veggies, or herbs

• Naturally vegetarian

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Ingredients Overview

This pasta proves that less is more. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta

• Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or any long noodle

• Can also use penne, rigatoni, or shells

• Cook until al dente, and save some pasta water

Garlic

• Fresh garlic is a must—finely minced or sliced

• Use 4–6 cloves depending on your taste

• Lightly sautéed in butter to bring out sweetness and depth

Butter

• The base of the sauce

• Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt

• A combo of butter and olive oil adds richness and flavor balance

Olive Oil (Optional)

• Helps prevent the butter from burning

• Adds a layer of Mediterranean depth

Parmesan Cheese

• Freshly grated is best for meltability and flavor

• Creates a light cheesy coating that binds with the butter

Seasonings

• Salt and black pepper

• Red pepper flakes for optional heat

• Parsley, thyme, or basil for a fresh finish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil

• Cook 8 oz (about 2½ cups) pasta until al dente

• Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

• In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat

• Add 4–6 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced

• Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden

• Optional: add 1 tbsp olive oil for extra depth

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet

• Toss to coat in the garlic butter

• Add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and stir until emulsified and glossy

• Stir in 1/4–1/3 cup grated Parmesan and toss again

Step 4: Season and Serve

• Add salt and black pepper to taste

• Sprinkle fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired

• Serve immediately with extra cheese on top

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the garlic—keep it light golden, not browned

• Always save pasta water—it’s the key to making the sauce cling

• Toss pasta in the skillet, not the pot—this allows better coating and control

Flavor Variations

• Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta: Add 1 tbsp lemon juice and zest

• Spicy Garlic Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil

• Creamy Garlic Pasta: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream and simmer with the garlic

• Garlic Herb Pasta: Add chopped thyme, basil, or rosemary

Add-Ins

• Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms

• Veggies: Try spinach, broccoli, or roasted cherry tomatoes

• Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts for texture

Substitutions

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and vegan Parmesan

• Gluten-free? Use brown rice or lentil pasta

• Low-carb? Try zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Garlic Butter Pasta is wonderfully versatile and fits into many meal settings:

• Main dish for a fast weeknight dinner

• Side dish with grilled steak, chicken, or fish

• Lunch prep—reheats well with a splash of water

• Date night—romantic, quick, and cozy

• Party buffet—just scale up the batch and keep warm

Pair with:

• A simple green salad

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls

• A glass of chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This recipe is:

• Vegetarian

• Free of added sugar

• Easily modified to be dairy- or gluten-free

Estimated per serving (based on 2 servings):

• Calories: 450–500

• Protein: 12–15g

• Carbs: 45–50g

• Fat: 20–25g

• Fiber: 2–4g

• Sodium: Variable (based on salt and cheese)

Make it lighter by:

• Using whole wheat pasta

• Reducing butter to 2 tbsp

• Swapping cheese with nutritional yeast

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make garlic butter pasta ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

2. What pasta shape is best?

Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair are classic. But short shapes like penne or shells work well too—especially for kids.

3. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best, but in a pinch, use 1/2 tsp garlic powder per 2 cloves. Add it after the butter has melted—don’t sauté.

4. Is garlic butter pasta kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the mild buttery flavor. Skip the chili flakes and serve with mild cheese or a protein on the side.

5. Can I make this dish creamy?

Yes. Add 1/4 cup heavy cream after sautéing garlic and let it simmer for 2 minutes before adding pasta.

6. Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat to your preference.

7. Can I freeze garlic butter pasta?

Not recommended. The butter-based sauce may separate when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.

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