Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Ready in just 15 minutes, it blends simple, everyday ingredients into a creamy, garlicky sensation that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a quick dinner fix, this recipe perfectly balances rich butter, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice to create a luscious sauce that clings to every tender strand of pasta. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and downright delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe relies on a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but absolutely essential. Each one contributes something special—whether it’s flavor, creaminess, or that pop of color—to make this dish truly memorable and satisfying.

• 8 ounces pasta: Use your favorite type, but something like spaghetti or linguine works beautifully to hold the sauce.
• 2 Tablespoons butter: The heart of the sauce, providing richness and that lovely silky texture.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a vibrant aroma and the unmistakable punch we all love.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to add dimension without overpowering the flavors.
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Adds depth and helps create a velvety sauce base.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: For that creamy, dreamy consistency that makes this dish irresistible.
• 1/3 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese: Loads of umami and a touch of saltiness that elevates the pasta.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional): A little brightness to balance the richness.
• Kosher salt & fresh-ground black pepper: To season perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
• Sprinkling of parsley (dried or fresh): Adds a fresh pop of green and subtle herbal notes.

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt to season the water—this step is key because it flavors the pasta from within. Toss in your pasta and cook it just until al dente, following the package directions. Once it’s perfectly tender but still with a slight bite, drain well and set aside. Remember, the pasta will continue to soften slightly once mixed into the sauce, so avoid overcooking here.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it melts, the butter will start to smell nutty and delicious. Add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring quickly so the garlic doesn’t brown too much but releases all its flavor. Then, pour in the broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer for 1-2 minutes. This helps blend those savory flavors into a rich base for your sauce.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, becoming luxuriously smooth. Then add in the freshly-grated Parmesan cheese along with the optional lemon juice, plus salt and pepper to taste. The Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding that irresistible cheesy finish while lemon juice gives it a subtle but bright lift. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Finally, add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with your creamy garlic butter sauce. Toss well to coat each strand evenly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Finish with a generous sprinkling of parsley for freshness and a lovely pop of color. Serve immediately to enjoy this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe at its creamiest and most flavorful.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the plate but adds a fresh herbal note that balances the richness. You can also add extra grated Parmesan or a few twists of freshly ground black pepper on top for a little finishing flourish. For a touch of elegance, try adding toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also bring a fresh crunch and contrast. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or crusty baguette slices work beautifully to soak up the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating the pasta in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic vibe or twirling nests of pasta onto each plate for a restaurant-quality presentation. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers if you want to impress at a dinner party. You can also sprinkle crispy pancetta or sautéed mushrooms on top for an elevated twist without straying too far from the recipe’s comforting simplicity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any of this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe left over, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, though you might notice the texture of the pasta soften a bit as it soaks up the sauce.

Freezing

Freezing creamy pasta dishes can be tricky because the texture of the cream and cheese might change, becoming grainy. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately or enjoy this dish fresh for the best experience. If you do freeze leftovers, thaw them gently and expect a slight change in texture.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming and to bring back that creamy texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic and offers that perfect umami, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a mild Asiago. Just keep in mind the saltiness and texture might vary slightly.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based margarine or olive oil, use coconut cream or a non-dairy creamer in place of heavy cream, and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

Can I add vegetables or protein to this pasta?

Definitely! Toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to bulk up the meal. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon also make fantastic additions for more protein and flavor.

How spicy is the red pepper flakes amount?

The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds just a gentle warmth that lifts the flavors without making the dish overly spicy. You can always adjust it up or down depending on your heat preference.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Long, thin pastas like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are perfect for holding the creamy garlic butter sauce, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Even short pasta shapes like penne or rotini will work well.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic. It’s quick, incredibly tasty, and hits that perfect balance between creamy and garlicky every single time. Whether you want a fast weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share, this pasta is ready to bring comfort and joy to your table. Give it a go and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!

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