Garlic butter pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed by anyone. This classic dish is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste. 
The combination of garlic and butter creates a flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, making it a favorite for many people. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
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Why This Recipe Works
This garlic butter pasta recipe is a winner because it's incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta.
Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it's also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences by adding your favorite protein or veggies. With its delicious taste and simple preparation, this garlic butter pasta is sure to become a go-to meal in your household.
Ingredients
Pasta - any type works, but spaghetti or fettuccine is preferred; gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.
Garlic - fresh garlic cloves are best for maximum flavor; minced garlic from a jar can be used in a pinch.
Butter - unsalted is ideal for controlling the salt level; margarine or olive oil can be used as a substitute.
Parmesan cheese - freshly grated adds a delicious, nutty flavor; pre-shredded or vegan cheese can be used as an alternative.
Parsley - fresh is best for a burst of color and flavor; dried parsley can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Tips
- Cook pasta al dente for the best texture.
- Use a large pan to make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the garlic butter sauce.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Customize the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies.
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the pasta.
How to Serve
Serve this garlic butter pasta as a main dish, accompanied by a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The pasta's rich, flavorful sauce makes it an excellent choice for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
- Make it a seafood pasta by adding cooked shrimp or scallops.
- Turn it into a hearty meal by mixing in sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
- Pair it with a glass of white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio, for an elegant touch.
Similar Recipes
Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta spaghetti or fettuccine
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat in the garlic butter.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and enough reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Mix in chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use a large pan to make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the garlic butter sauce.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Customize the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies.
• Reheat leftovers gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the pasta.