Golden garlic meets silky butter in this fast and flavorful pasta dish that’s bound to become a weeknight favorite. With just a handful of pantry staples and 20 minutes on the clock, this recipe delivers a satisfying main course that’s both comforting and elegant. The balance of olive oil, fresh parsley, and freshly grated Parmesan takes it from simple to stunning all without the need for heavy cream or complex techniques.
Whether you serve it as a main or a side, garlic butter noodles are pure pasta perfection. This dish comes together so quickly, yet feels restaurant-worthy thanks to that irresistible buttery garlic base.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Noodles
- Fast – Ready in just 20 minutes, start to finish.
- Minimal ingredients – Made with pantry staples you probably already have.
- Incredible flavor – Buttery, garlicky, savory, and rich.
- Versatile – Works as a main or side dish and can be easily customized.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this rich and flavorful pasta:
- 12 ounces linguine (or other long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 large garlic cloves, minced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
Tip: Use high-quality butter and real Parmesan cheese (not the powdered kind) for the best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente tender but still firm to the bite, about 9–13 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to help create the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. You want it fragrant and just golden avoid browning it.
3. Combine & Toss
After draining the pasta, return the skillet with garlic butter to medium heat. Add the cooked pasta, ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water, and the chopped parsley. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another minute or two, adding more pasta water as needed if it looks dry.
4. Season & Finish
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Transfer the noodles to a serving dish, then top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for garnish. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tips
- Don’t burn the garlic – Burned garlic turns bitter quickly. Watch it closely and remove from heat once golden and fragrant.
- Use pasta water wisely – It’s packed with starch and helps the sauce cling to the noodles beautifully.
- Grate your own cheese – Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt the same way. Fresh is best.
- Double the garlic – Garlic lovers can easily add more cloves or use roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
Variations to Try
Looking to change it up a bit? Here are a few delicious spins on the classic:
- Add protein – Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or seared scallops.
- Go spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for some heat.
- Make it creamy – Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.
- Toss in veggies – Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes are great additions.
Serving Suggestions
This dish works beautifully as a main course for a cozy night in, but it also pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A simple side salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled steak or baked salmon
It’s elegant enough for date night but quick enough for busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Spaghetti, angel hair, fettuccine, or even bucatini work well. Just aim for something long and thin to hold the sauce nicely.
Can I make garlic butter noodles ahead of time?
They’re best served fresh, but you can reheat leftovers with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes just make sure your Parmesan cheese is labeled vegetarian (some use animal rennet).
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little water or butter.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the simplest. This garlic butter noodles recipe proves that with just a few quality ingredients, you can create a pasta dish that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Whether you enjoy it on its own or dress it up with your favorite add-ins, it’s a keeper for your recipe box.
More Pasta Recipes :
- Shrimp Scampi with Pasta
- Sticky Honey Garlic Sausage Pasta Skillet
- Meghan Markle’s One-Pot Pasta: Royal Taste in 15 Minutes
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
- Fresh And Flavorful Pasta Salad Recipe
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
