Description
This Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple, quick, and flavorful dish made with al dente pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter tomato sauce, then finished with parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy pasta recipe delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Add protein or veggies for a more filling meal!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 Tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, to prevent sticking)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 Tablespoons salted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon mixed herbs (Italian seasoning or dried oregano)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a pan over medium heat, melt 2 Tablespoons butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Pour in chicken stock and add black pepper, chili flakes, and mixed herbs. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 Tablespoon butter and parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve warm, topped with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, add more butter when mixing in the pasta.
- Make it spicy by increasing the chili flakes or adding red pepper powder.
- For a creamy version, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream after adding the chicken stock.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
- Protein add-ins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Want more veggies? Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers with the garlic.
