This Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan is a simple, comforting dish made with tender pasta, rich butter, fresh garlic, and plenty of Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite protein.
Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet.
- Toss until the pasta is coated in the garlic butter.
- Add the Parmesan cheese gradually while tossing.
- Pour in the reserved pasta water and mix until creamy.
- Sprinkle with parsley.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not brown the garlic or it may become bitter.
- Reserve pasta water before draining.
- Add cheese gradually for a smoother sauce.
- Season to taste before serving.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Variations
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Stir in cooked shrimp.
- Add sautéed mushrooms.
- Include spinach or kale.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mix in roasted broccoli.
- Use fettuccine or linguine instead of spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread.
- Pair with a fresh green salad.
- Enjoy alongside grilled chicken.
- Serve with roasted vegetables.
- Add a side of Caesar salad.
- Pair with baked salmon.
Tips
- Salt the pasta water generously.
- Save extra pasta water if needed.
- Toss the pasta continuously while adding cheese.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese.
- Reheat gently with a splash of water.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Serves: 4
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 27g
- Sodium: 520mg
FAQs
Can I make garlic butter pasta ahead of time?
This pasta is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
What type of Parmesan works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts much better than pre-shredded varieties and gives the pasta a richer, smoother texture.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes. Linguine, fettuccine, angel hair, or even short pasta like penne work well in this recipe.
How do I keep the sauce from becoming dry?
Reserved pasta water is the key. Add a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or even crispy bacon pair beautifully with the garlic butter and Parmesan flavors.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the Parmesan cheese you use is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Pasta with Parmesan is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. Rich butter, aromatic garlic, and savory Parmesan come together to make a quick, easy pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
