Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner

Name: Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Dishes

I love whipping up this Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner on busy weeknights when time is tight but I still want something comforting and delicious. The rich combination of garlic and butter elevates simple pasta into a decadent dish that can be ready in just 20 minutes. Toss in fresh herbs and sprinkle some grated cheese for a complete meal. This is not only quick but also versatile; you can add vegetables or proteins based on what I have on hand. I know this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen too!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:33:36.382Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so flavorful. I remember pairing it with a crisp salad, and it turned dinner into a restaurant-quality meal. The secret? Don't rush the garlic—letting it cook gently releases wonderful flavors that make the dish come alive!

Another thing I adore about this pasta is its adaptability. Sometimes, I toss in seasonal vegetables or leftover chicken, turning a basic recipe into a wholesome feast. It allows me to use what I have, making it an invaluable recipe in my weeknight rotation.

3 Reasons You'll Love This
A delightful marriage of flavors with garlic and butter
Quick to prepare, perfect for any busy night
Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or proteins

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce

To achieve the perfect garlic butter sauce, it's essential to balance the heat when sautéing the garlic. Use medium heat to prevent the garlic from burning, which can impart a bitter flavor. Sauté it until it turns a light golden color, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. This ensures that the garlic releases its aromatic oils without becoming overly browned. Keep an eye on it, as garlic can burn quickly and ruin the sauce.

If you want to add a touch of freshness to the sauce, consider incorporating lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice right before tossing the pasta. This addition brightens the dish and enhances the garlicky richness. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for added depth, making the sauce even more flavorful. Just chop the herbs finely and toss them in during the last moments of cooking.

Customizing Your Pasta Dish

One of the best aspects of this Easy Garlic Butter Pasta Dinner is its versatility. Feel free to toss in vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added nutrition and color. Just sauté these vegetables in the butter before adding the garlic to soften them slightly. If you prefer protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can make great additions. Remember to cook your proteins separately and fold them in just before serving to ensure they maintain their texture.

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to the garlic butter sauce, alongside the reserved pasta water. This will infuse the dish with additional savory notes and enrich the overall taste. If you're looking for a creamier texture, a drizzle of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese can be mixed in with the butter and garlic, transforming the dish into a more indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious dinner:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Enjoy this scrumptious pasta dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. If using, add red pepper flakes.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the pot with the garlic butter. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in the parsley.

Plate the Dish

Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired.

Your Easy Garlic Butter Pasta is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding more garlic or herbs like basil and thyme. Additionally, consider adding grilled shrimp or sautéed vegetables to make it a more complete meal.

Storing and Reheating

This Easy Garlic Butter Pasta can be made ahead and stored for meal prep. To store, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth to the pan and warm over medium heat until heated through. Stirring gently will help to reincorporate the sauce without drying it out.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, I recommend undercooking the pasta slightly (cook it for about 1-2 minutes less than recommended). This way, when you reheat it from frozen, it won't become mushy. You can freeze it in portions, and when you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of water as needed.

Scaling Up the Recipe

If you're feeding a crowd or just want to make extra for leftovers, this recipe scales up beautifully. Simply maintain the same proportions for the ingredients; for example, if you're doubling the amount of spaghetti, use 16 oz, 8 tablespoons of butter, and so on. However, be mindful of the size of your pot, as overcrowding can prevent the pasta from cooking evenly. It's better to use two pots if you're increasing the quantity significantly.

When scaling up, the cooking times for the pasta may vary slightly, so taste test a minute or two before the package instructions indicate. Additionally, you may need to adjust the garlic and parsley quantities to ensure the flavors remain balanced. Always trust your taste buds; if it feels lacking, don’t hesitate to add more seasoning or herbs as necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this sauce.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just make sure to use a vegetarian cheese for serving.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

→ What can I pair this dish with?

This pasta pairs nicely with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.