Easy Garlic Butter Noodles
These easy garlic butter noodles are a 15-minute comfort dinner, featuring silky strands of pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you crave a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz dried spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine (use gluten-free noodles if needed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (plus more for boiling noodles)
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain noodles.
- While noodles cook, peel and mince garlic cloves.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter and swirl until melted and foamy but not browned.
- Add minced garlic to melted butter. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, stirring often.
- Transfer drained noodles into the skillet with garlic butter. Toss gently with tongs to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add reserved pasta water and toss again.
- Stir in grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and lemon zest if desired. Toss until noodles are glossy and lightly sauced. Add more pasta water if needed.
- Transfer to bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling to noodles. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, use appropriate noodles and butter substitutes. Add veggies or protein for a heartier meal. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of water or butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 cups noodles
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 10
Keywords: garlic butter noodles, easy pasta, comfort food, quick dinner, vegetarian, weeknight meal, pantry staples, kid-friendly, gluten-free option