Description
This garlic butter pasta recipe offers a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and Parmesan create a rich and comforting sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with many proteins or veggies.
Ingredients
8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add red pepper flakes if using, then toss in pasta.
4. Mix well to coat pasta, adding reserved water gradually to loosen sauce.
5. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately.
Notes
Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a heartier dish.
Use vegan butter and cheese substitutes for a vegan version.
Try fresh herbs like basil or thyme for variation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg