Garlic Butter Noodles – A Quick and Comforting Pasta Recipe

Need a tasty garlic butter noodles recipe? This article will give you step by step instruction to make them! Check it out.

There’s nothing like a bowl of buttery, garlicky pasta to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

With its rich, silky sauce and minimal ingredients, this Garlic Butter Noodles recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without much effort.

What began as a late-night experiment with pantry staples has turned into a beloved family recipe we make every week. Ready to try this quick and easy dish?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

Garlic Butter Noodles hit all the right notes when it comes to easy, flavorful cooking. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is faster than ordering takeout.
• Pantry-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients like pasta, garlic, and butter, you likely already have everything you need.
• Versatile and Customizable: Serve it as-is, or elevate it with proteins like shrimp or chicken and veggies like spinach or broccoli.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for picky eaters or seasoned foodies, these noodles are always a hit.

Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Noodles

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create a comforting, flavorful dish:

• Pasta: Spaghetti and linguine are traditional, but penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you have on hand works just as well.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides bold, aromatic flavor. For the best results, avoid pre-minced options.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the saltiness of the dish. High-quality butter enhances the sauce’s richness.
• Olive Oil: A small amount prevents the butter from burning and adds depth to the flavor. Use extra-virgin for the best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan takes this dish to the next level. Skip pre-shredded varieties for the smoothest sauce.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and balances the buttery richness.

Optional extras include red pepper flakes for heat, lemon zest for a citrusy zing, or even truffle oil for a luxurious touch.

How to Make Garlic Butter Noodles

This recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a perfectly buttery, garlicky dish:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat every strand in the garlicky butter sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

4. Add Cheese and Herbs

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the pasta and toss again to create a creamy, luscious coating. Stir in chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

5. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while the noodles are warm and glistening.

Storage and Reheating

Garlic Butter Noodles store well if you have leftovers. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store cooled noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or butter to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the sauce.

Variations to Try

This recipe is highly versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Add Protein: Toss in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
• Incorporate Veggies: Sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli add color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil for a spicy twist.
• Brighten It Up: Add lemon juice or zest for a zesty, refreshing flavor.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a new flavor profile.

This dish is your blank canvas—get creative with what you have on hand!

Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp salt, or to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to coat it in the garlic butter sauce.
4. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Final Thoughts

These Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles are proof that simplicity is often the most satisfying.

With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s comforting, versatile, and utterly delicious.

Whether you’re making it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Give it a try tonight—you won’t regret it!