There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of warm, buttery noodles infused with the rich aroma of garlic. This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you're craving something simple yet satisfying.
I first tried garlic butter noodles during a rushed evening, and it immediately became a go-to favorite. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum satisfaction. Trust me, this dish will quickly earn a spot in your dinner rotation.
Why You'll Love This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
Get ready to meet your new favorite recipe! These Garlic Butter Noodles are everything you want in a quick, crowd-pleasing dish.
First, it’s incredibly fast and simple to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 20 minutes – perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
It’s also budget-friendly. Using basic ingredients like pasta, butter, and garlic, this recipe proves that great taste doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.
The versatility is another major win. Whether you want to enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite protein, these noodles adapt beautifully to whatever you’re in the mood for.
Finally, it’s a kid-approved classic. Even picky eaters can’t resist the buttery, garlicky goodness of this dish. Pair it with veggies for a balanced meal, and you've got a winner on your hands.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table.
- Pasta: Choose any pasta you have on hand! Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine work great, but short shapes like penne or farfalle hold the sauce beautifully. For added nutrition, consider whole wheat or gluten-free options.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for maximum control over the flavor. The butter is the heart of the dish, creating a creamy, luxurious coating for the noodles.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key here. Its bold, aromatic flavor shines in this recipe, so don’t skimp! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add extra cloves.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness that elevates the dish. You can also substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Parsley (Optional): Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. It’s optional but highly recommended for garnishing.
You’ll also need a large pot, a colander, and a skillet for making the sauce – no fancy equipment required.
How To Make This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
Making Garlic Butter Noodles is as straightforward as it gets. Here's how to create this irresistible dish in just a few easy steps.
Start by boiling the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as it’s perfect for loosening up the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the garlic butter sauce. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
Next, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat each strand in the buttery garlic goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Finally, finish with Parmesan cheese and parsley. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted, then sprinkle additional cheese and fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite! [IMAGE]
Storage Options
Garlic Butter Noodles are best enjoyed fresh, but they’re also great for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: While freezing is possible, the texture of the butter sauce may change slightly. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm the noodles gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help revive the sauce and keep it from drying out.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of Garlic Butter Noodles is their versatility. Here are some creative ways to customize the recipe to your taste:
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Spice It Up: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil for a spicy kick.
- Go Veggie: Mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
- Swap the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Asiago, or even a dollop of ricotta for a twist on the classic.
- Use Garlic Alternatives: If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, though fresh cloves deliver the best flavor.
This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly magical. With its buttery, garlicky flavor and endless adaptability, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again. Let me know how you customize your version – I’d love to hear your creative twists!
PrintQuick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
This quick and easy garlic butter noodles recipe combines tender pasta, rich garlic, and creamy butter for a flavorful dish ready in just minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add red pepper flakes (if using) and stir.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s coated evenly with the butter and garlic mixture. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan and parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Adjust garlic quantity for a stronger or milder flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250mg
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