This quick garlic butter noodles recipe is a perfect side dish or main course that brings the rich, aromatic taste of fresh garlic and parmesan cheese to the forefront. Made with a handful of simple ingredients and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy nights and serving alongside tender meat, succulent poultry, or delicate fish.
I love making these garlic butter noodles because they’re incredibly quick and easy, perfect for those nights when I need a satisfying meal without a lot of effort. With just a few staple ingredients—pasta, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese—I can whip up a flavorful dish that feels comforting and indulgent, even when I’m short on time.
What makes this easy pasta recipe even better is their versatility. I can pair them with just about any main dish, from grilled chicken to roasted fish, and it complements them all beautifully. Sometimes, I like to toss in a few vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to turn the noodles into a more substantial meal. They're also a hit with younger kids, especially those who might not be fans of traditional pasta sauces. The simple, buttery garlic flavor is one that everyone in the family can enjoy.
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Basic Ingredients You Need
- Pasta – I typically use fettuccine or spaghetti noodles for this garlic butter pasta dish but you can use your favorite style of pasta or egg noodles.
- Salted Butter - Butter adds richness and a smooth, creamy texture to the dish, balancing the garlic’s bold flavor. If using unsalted butter or substituting olive oil, you may need to add more salt.
- Garlic - Use freshly minced garlic cloves for the best flavor. If you like the garlicky sauce with a milder taste, use ½ teaspoon to one teaspoon of garlic powder instead of minced garlic.
- Parmesan Cheese - Freshly grated parmesan adds a savory, slightly nutty flavor, and helps to create a thick, creamy sauce that clings to the noodles. You can also use asiago cheese or Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Salt & Pepper - Sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the flavors of the dish and can be adjusted to your personal preference.
- Parsley - Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of earthiness to the finished dish. Fresh basil or other herbs can also be used as a substitute.
- Optional ingredients - Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some extra spice or a splash of lemon juice to the garlic butter sauce for extra zing.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Butter Garlic Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil & then add the pasta noodles. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes until al dente or according to package directions.
- Reserve about ½ cup of the spaghetti cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the butter and garlic to the pot. Saute on medium heat for a minute or two to soften garlic. Add pasta water and cheese. Whick well to combine.
- Add pasta to the butter mixture and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes or until all the pasta is covered in a thick sauce.
- Add salt & pepper to taste. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with extra Parmesan cheese.
Hint: Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente, meaning it’s tender but still firm to the bite. This texture holds up better when mixed with the butter and garlic sauce because the pasta will continue to cook when added to the sauce.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Noodles
These garlic butter noodles pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings, making them a versatile addition to any meal. For a hearty and satisfying option, serve them alongside crispy baked chicken thighs or tender lemon butter scallops. If you’re looking for a lighter, veggie-packed plate, sautéed zucchini and tomatoes make an excellent choice. A crisp house salad with a tangy vinaigrette would also complement the rich flavors of the pasta.
You can also get creative by using these noodles as a base for other dishes. They would be the perfect starting point for this pasta with white beans and kale recipe, adding a buttery, garlicky foundation that enhances the earthy greens and creamy beans. Whether you’re keeping it simple or building a more elaborate meal, these noodles offer endless possibilities.
Equipment
To make this garlic butter noodles recipe, you’ll need just a few basic pieces of equipment. Start with a large pot that’s big enough to comfortably cook the pasta and versatile enough to be used for sautéing the garlic afterward. This will save you from having to use multiple dishes. Additionally, a strainer is essential for draining the pasta to prevent it from over cooking. Use a ladle for reserving some of the starchy cooking water for the sauce.
Storage
To store any leftover garlic butter noodles, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the pasta gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure the noodles heat evenly, and feel free to add a little extra butter or Parmesan to refresh the flavors.
Freezing these noodles is not recommended.
Cooking Tips
- Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to save some of the pasta cooking water before draining. The starchy water helps to thicken the sauce and allows it to cling to the noodles.
- When melting the butter and sautéing the garlic, keep the heat low to avoid burning the garlic.
- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. The amount of Parmesan you use can also affect the saltiness.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs at the end! They add a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
FAQ
While spaghetti and fettuccine work well, you can use any pasta shape you like. Short pasta like penne or fusilli can also hold the sauce nicely.
To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based butter and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Garlic butter noodles pair well with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also toss in leftover meat or add chopped deli ham for an easy protein boost. Mix the protein into the noodles or serve on the side.
If the sauce is too dry, simply add a little more reserved pasta water, a bit of butter, or a splash of broth to loosen it up and create a creamier consistency.
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RECIPE
Garlic Butter Noodles
Ingredients
- 16 ounces spaghetti or fettucine pasta noodles
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 Tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- parsley (or other fresh herbs) for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil & then add the pasta noodles. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes until al dente or according to package directions.
- Reserve about ½ cup of the spaghetti cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Add the butter and garlic to the pot. Saute on medium heat for a minute or two to soften garlic. Add pasta water and cheese. Whick well to combine.
- Add pasta to the butter mixture and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes or until all the pasta is covered in a thick sauce.
- Add salt & pepper to taste. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Nutrition
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