Description
This Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and comforting dish made with golden sautéed garlic, rich butter, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s delicious on its own or as a base for grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. A true weeknight hero!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, not browned.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce:
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic butter.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in Parmesan and herbs.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese or lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Great with shrimp, chicken, or scallops for a full meal.
- Use vegan butter and skip cheese for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
