Quick Garlic Butter Pasta

Name: Quick Garlic Butter Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti or your favorite pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love how simple yet flavorful this Quick Garlic Butter Pasta is. In just under 20 minutes, I can whip up a delicious meal that feels indulgent without being heavy. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough for guests. I often add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated parmesan on top to elevate the dish. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-03T16:10:40.153Z

When I first tried this Quick Garlic Butter Pasta, I couldn't believe how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The garlic is sautéed gently in butter, allowing it to infuse the oil and create a golden sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. I've experimented with different pasta shapes, and each one brings its own charm to the dish, making it a staple in my kitchen.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve a little pasta water before draining; adding this back into the sauce helps it adhere better to the pasta. Whether it's a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes for me!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that come together in minutes
A rich, buttery sauce that elevates everyday pasta
Perfect for weeknights or special occasions

      

Perfecting the Garlic-Butter Ratio

The key to achieving that rich, savory flavor in Quick Garlic Butter Pasta lies in the balance between garlic and butter. Using four cloves of garlic provides a robust flavor without overpowering the dish. When sautéing, aim for a medium heat setting. You want the garlic to become fragrant and turn a golden hue, which usually takes about two minutes. This technique not only enhances the garlic’s natural sweetness but also ensures it doesn't burn, which would impart a bitter taste.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with a good-quality olive oil. This change will still yield a delicious sauce while adding a healthier twist. Keep in mind that the olive oil will provide a different flavor profile, which pairs nicely with the garlic and still feels special.

Adjusting the Consistency

Achieving the perfect sauce consistency is crucial for this dish. After adding the drained pasta to the garlic butter, gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water. Start with 1/4 cup, and toss the pasta until well coated. The starch in the pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that clings to each strand of spaghetti. Adjust the amount based on your preference for a lighter or thicker sauce.

If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can allow it to simmer for a minute or two on medium-low heat. This will help thicken the sauce while intensifying the flavors. Just be aware that sautéing for too long can result in a heavier dish, so keep an eye on its texture and taste along the way.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation!

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure everything is ready to go before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and delicious pasta dish!

Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and golden.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired sauce consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and easy pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. You can also substitute olive oil for a lighter version, or mix in your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.

Garnishing for Flavor

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with a fresh herbaceous note. Chopping the parsley finely ensures that you get a hint of its flavor in every bite. Consider using a mix of parsley and basil for an aromatic twist, which complements the buttery sauce superbly.

For those who adore cheese, grated parmesan can elevate this dish even further. It adds a nutty richness that meshes well with the garlic butter. Just make sure to grate the parmesan fresh, as pre-grated options often lack the same depth of flavor. Adding the cheese while the pasta is still hot will help it melt slightly, creating an even creamier sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store your Quick Garlic Butter Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, consider adding a splash of olive oil to help prevent the pasta from sticking together. This will also keep the flavors vibrant when reheating.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of water or broth. Toss gently until heated through, adding a touch of butter if you wish to revive that rich texture. This will help recreate some of the dish's original creaminess without losing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This dish is already vegetarian! Just ensure to use vegetarian-friendly parmesan or skip the cheese altogether.

→ Can I add protein to the pasta?

Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms would be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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