Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner

Name: Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Highlighted under: Instant Quick Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love whipping up this Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner when I crave comfort food that doesn’t take all evening to prepare. The aroma of garlic sizzling in buttery goodness fills my kitchen, and it’s hard not to feel excited. In just 20 minutes, I have a delectable dish ready to be enjoyed, and I can easily customize it by adding seasonal veggies or protein. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy date night at home!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:36:48.417Z

When I first created this Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner, I was inspired by the simplicity of Italian cuisine that always impresses. I chose to use fresh ingredients, letting the garlic and butter shine through without overwhelming any flavors. I remember my family gathering around the table, and the steam rising from the pasta brought smiles all around. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end not only enhances the flavor but adds a touch of color!

This dish showcases how a few basic ingredients can deliver an unforgettable meal. I often experiment with adding cherry tomatoes or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition, showcasing how versatile this dish can be. Remember to reserve some pasta water—it’s a wonderful secret to adjust the sauce’s consistency and make sure it clings beautifully to the pasta!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and buttery flavor that comforts the soul
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

Creating the Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish, bringing depth and richness to the spaghetti. As you melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown. You want that lovely golden hue, not a darkened butter. The key is to add the minced garlic just as the butter begins to melt, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter with flavor without turning bitter, which usually happens when it’s cooked too long.

Timing is crucial here: sauté the garlic for only 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. You should see it begin to lightly bubble and foamy, a sign it’s ready for the next step. If it starts to brown, remove the pan from heat immediately to prevent bitterness from developing, which can overshadow the delicate balance of flavors.

Perfecting the Pasta Technique

Cook your spaghetti to al dente for the best texture; this usually means you should follow the package instructions, but you can start testing a minute or two early. An easy way to check is to bite into a strand; it should be firm but not hard. Remember to reserve that crucial 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a game changer for achieving an ideal sauce consistency and helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully.

When combining the spaghetti with the garlic butter, make sure to use tongs or a large fork to toss the pasta gently, ensuring each strand is well-coated. Start adding the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring continuously. You'll know the sauce has reached the right consistency when it glazes the pasta without pooling at the bottom of the pan, creating a delightful sheen that invites you to dig in.

Customizing and Storing Your Dish

One of the best parts about this Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner is its versatility. Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. Not only do they add color, but they also enhance the dish's nutrition. If you’re looking to add protein, sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken can be incorporated with little fuss. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly so everything harmonizes on the plate.

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit of extra butter to bring back its creamy texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before reheating and freshening it up with a sprinkle of cheese and parsley.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a comforting and delicious meal:

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Enjoy creating this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water until reaching your desired sauce consistency.

Finish and Serve

Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Plate and garnish with extra cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli to the dish. You can also switch up the cheese based on what you have on hand or prefer.

Enhancing Flavors with Cheese and Herbs

The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only enriches the flavor but also adds a nice creaminess as it melts into the warm pasta. Opt for a block of cheese rather than pre-grated versions; the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how well it incorporates into the sauce. Grating fresh cheese at home ensures a luscious melt that elevates this simple dish.

Chopped fresh parsley isn’t just for garnish; it provides a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the buttery sauce. You can easily substitute parsley with other fresh herbs like basil or thyme, which can give the dish an entirely new twist. Experimenting with different herb combinations can make this pasta feel new every time you prepare it.

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Every Time

To ensure your spaghetti cooks perfectly, always make sure to use plenty of well-salted water. It should taste like the sea, as this is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out. Avoid adding oil to the cooking water, as this can prevent the sauce from adhering to the spaghetti later. Instead, make sure to toss the pasta in the sauce right after draining to keep it from sticking together.

If you find your pasta turning too sticky after cooking, it could be a sign that it was overcrowded in the pot or that it didn’t get enough water during cooking. For scale ups, use a larger pot to provide plenty of boiling water per ounce of pasta. This will help achieve that perfect al dente texture, which is the foundation of a delicious garlic butter pasta.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pair your Easy Garlic Butter Pasta with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta beautifully. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread makes for a delightful accompaniment, ideal for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce—truly a comfort food combination.

If you’re looking to enhance your meal further, consider serving it with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red such as Chianti. The acidity of these wines complements the buttery sauce wonderfully without overpowering the delicate flavors of the dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick, making each bite more exciting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like will work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

→ What can I pair this dish with?

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a light salad, grilled chicken, or your favorite protein for a complete meal.