Delicious Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Nothing satisfies quite like a bowl of garlic butter pasta—this classic dish celebrates the rich aroma of garlic and the luxurious silkiness of butter, creating a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. With its minimal ingredients, quick cook time, and crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s a weeknight hero that impresses family and guests alike.
Why This Garlic Butter Pasta Is Extra Special
While many pasta dishes rely on heavy sauces, this recipe lets simple, fresh ingredients shine. The secret lies in balancing golden, sautéed garlic with just enough butter to coat every strand of pasta, ensuring a bite that’s flavorful, never greasy. Customizable with vegetables or protein additions, this meal is as flexible as it is delicious.
Choosing and Prepping Ingredients
For maximum flavor, use high-quality unsalted butter and fresh garlic. If you want to incorporate vegetables like zucchini, bell pepper, or mushrooms, a good prep tool like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper ensures uniform cuts, helping veggies cook evenly and blend beautifully into the pasta.
Freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley elevate the final dish, adding texture and color. Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water—its starch helps emulsify the buttery sauce and cling to the noodles.
Cooking Perfect Garlic Butter Pasta
Use a wide nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet to sauté garlic until it’s fragrant but not burnt, which is crucial for unlocking its sweet and savory notes. Tossing the pasta into the skillet allows everything to come together quickly, coating each noodle in garlic-infused butter.
Don’t forget to add a splash of reserved pasta water as you toss. It helps the sauce thicken and coat the pasta evenly.
Serving Suggestions and Meal Prep
Serve your garlic butter pasta immediately, topped with parmesan and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect on its own or served alongside a simple grilled protein or steamed vegetables. For on-the-go lunches, use a sturdy container like the Bentgo Salad Container to keep your pasta fresh and mess-free.
Store any leftovers in airtight containers such as the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for up to three days in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information and Portions
This recipe makes about 4 servings, with each plate offering around 400–500 calories, depending on pasta type and cheese quantity. Pairing with light proteins or leafy salads keeps your meal balanced.
Delicious Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe (Recap)
This pasta brings restaurant-worthy taste to your dining table with very little effort, letting the natural flavors of garlic and butter shine. Its warmth, versatility, and quick preparation slot it into busy schedules while still feeling like something special.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare any add-ins: Use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for quick, uniform chopping of vegetables if desired.
- In a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant and just golden (about 2 minutes). Stir in red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss in the butter and garlic using tongs. Pour in about 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, tossing continuously to combine and loosen the sauce. Add more pasta water as needed if the mixture seems dry.
- Sprinkle in the parmesan and half the parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue tossing until the cheese melts and each noodle is well coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan, remaining parsley, and your choice of sautéed vegetables or protein. For meal prepping, divide into the Bentgo Salad Container for easy transport.
- To store leftovers, use Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers to keep your pasta fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Enjoy this simple yet decadent garlic butter pasta recipe—it’s proof that unforgettable meals don’t have to be complicated!