Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: garlic butter pasta! It’s one of those dishes that’s both incredibly simple and bursting with flavor, making it a go-to for me when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, all it takes is a handful of ingredients—spaghetti, butter, garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. You’ll be amazed at how these humble components come together to create a comforting, rich dish that feels fancy but is totally easy to whip up. Trust me, once you try this garlic butter pasta, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, and you can have it ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 200g spaghetti (You can use any pasta you like, but spaghetti really holds onto that sauce!)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (This is where that rich, creamy goodness comes from!)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover, like me!)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Adjust based on your spice tolerance—it’s a great way to add a kick!)
- Salt to taste (I usually sprinkle a bit in while cooking, but taste as you go!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness at the end!)
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Pasta
- Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt your water well—it really makes a difference in flavor! Usually, it takes about 8-10 minutes to get that perfect al dente texture.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab a pan and melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Just let it melt gently—no need to rush this part!
- Once the butter is melted and starting to foam, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen is heavenly! Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it burn—burnt garlic can be bitter.
- When your spaghetti is ready, drain it well, but don’t rinse! You want all that starchy goodness to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Now, add the drained spaghetti directly into the pan with the garlic butter mixture. Give it a good toss to coat every strand—this is where the magic happens!
- Finally, sprinkle in some salt to taste and garnish with the freshly chopped parsley. This little touch of green not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes!
- Rich, buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Only requires a handful of ingredients, so it’s budget-friendly!
- Vegetarian-friendly and perfect for meatless nights.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite herbs or proteins!
- Comforting and satisfying, making it a family favorite.
- Simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your garlic butter pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my go-to tips to elevate this dish:
- Salt your water: When you cook spaghetti, don’t skimp on the salt in the boiling water. It should taste like the ocean! This ensures your pasta is flavorful from the start.
- Watch the garlic: Keep an eye on your garlic while it’s sautéing. It can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a flash—trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way!
- Add some pasta water: If your pasta seems dry after tossing it with the garlic butter, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water. It’s starchy and helps create a silky sauce!
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to play around! Add lemon zest for brightness or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra richness. It’s all about what you love!
- Fresh herbs: While parsley is a classic, you could also use basil or thyme for a different twist. Fresh herbs really enhance the overall flavor.
- Timing is key: Make sure to time everything right so your pasta is done cooking just as your garlic butter is ready. This keeps everything warm and delicious!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll nail this garlic butter pasta every time, and impress everyone at the table!
Variations
If you’re like me and love to get creative in the kitchen, you’ll adore how versatile garlic butter pasta can be! Here are some fun variations to switch things up and keep your taste buds excited:
- Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a pop of color and extra nutrition. They pair beautifully with the garlic butter!
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a heartier meal. Just cook them separately and mix them in at the end!
- Herb infusion: Swap out the parsley for fresh basil or oregano for a different flavor profile. You could even mix in a bit of thyme for an earthy twist!
- Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle some grated parmesan or pecorino on top just before serving. It melts beautifully and adds that creamy richness we all crave!
- Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Creamy twist: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right before serving. It transforms the dish into a luscious delight!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to experiment and let your creativity shine. The beauty of garlic butter pasta is that it’s simple enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand or whatever flavors you’re craving. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious garlic butter pasta and now you have some leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat them while keeping that amazing flavor intact.
First, let the pasta cool down to room temperature before storing. You want to avoid any condensation in the container, which can make it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container—this will keep it fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
When it comes time to reheat, I recommend using a skillet for the best results. Just add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to the pan, then toss in your pasta over medium heat. Stir it gently and let it warm up, adding more liquid if needed, until it’s heated through. This method helps revive that creamy garlic butter sauce and prevents the pasta from drying out.
If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave! Just pop your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle a little water over it, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed. But honestly, the skillet method is my favorite for keeping everything tasting fresh and fabulous.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your garlic butter pasta all over again without losing any of that deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! I know many of us love to keep an eye on what we’re eating, and while this garlic butter pasta is a treat, it’s nice to know what’s in it. Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, so consider these numbers as estimates. Here’s a typical breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Enjoy your delicious garlic butter pasta, knowing it’s not just tasty but also packed with a good balance of nutrients. Perfect for a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love spaghetti for this garlic butter pasta, you can use any pasta you prefer—penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
No worries! If you only have salted butter, just be cautious with the added salt in the recipe. You can always taste as you go and adjust accordingly. It’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. For a creamy texture, you might want to add a splash of coconut cream or a dollop of cashew cream at the end. It’ll still be packed with flavor!
What can I serve with garlic butter pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for dipping. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a protein of your choice for a complete meal.
How can I make this dish a bit healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider adding more veggies like spinach or zucchini directly into the pasta. You can also reduce the amount of butter or replace some with olive oil. It’ll still be tasty while upping the nutrition factor!
Garlic Butter Pasta: 20-Minute Comfort Food Bliss
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful garlic butter pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant.
- Drain spaghetti and add to the pan.
- Toss pasta in garlic butter mixture.
- Season with salt and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust garlic based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: garlic butter pasta