Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta is your go-to for a quick and savory meal on busy weeknights, ready in just 25 minutes. It features spaghetti tossed in a simple garlic butter sauce and sprinkled with Romano cheese, making for a cozy dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Garlic butter pasta is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s quick, easy, and crazy delicious—perfect for those nights when you just need something simple and satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling weeknight chaos or a college student looking for a meal that doesn’t come out of a microwave, this recipe has got you covered.

With just a few pantry staples and 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that tastes way fancier than it really is.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Pasta

• Fast and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes. Seriously, you could make this during a commercial break.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen.
• Bursting with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce is rich, savory, and downright addictive.
• Totally Customizable: Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu—or toss in veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Budget-Friendly: No fancy ingredients here, just affordable staples.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: Classic, reliable, and oh-so-comforting.
• Unsalted Butter: Half goes into sautéing the garlic; the other half gets tossed with the pasta.
• Garlic: The star of the show. Fresh cloves pack the best punch!
• Black Pepper & Salt: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
• Italian Seasoning: A pinch of herbs for that Mediterranean vibe.
• Romano Cheese: Sharp and salty—pure magic with the garlic butter.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of green for freshness and color.
• Pasta Water: That secret ingredient that makes the sauce silky smooth.

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta

Follow along to learn how to make garlic butter pasta!

• Step One: Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, drain the rest, and set the pasta aside.
• Step Two: Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat while the spaghetti is cooking. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
• Step Three: Add the remaining butter, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
• Step Four: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic butter. Pour in some reserved pasta water, one tablespoonful at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Step Five: Stir in the Romano cheese and parsley. Toss to combine.
• Step Six: Remove from the heat and serve immediately.

What to Serve With It

This pasta is fantastic on its own, but if you’re feeling extra, try these pairings:

• Seafood: Shrimp or scallops turn it into a fancy dinner in minutes.
• Garlic Bread: Because more garlic is always a good idea.
• Crisp Salad: A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Grilled Chicken: Add a protein boost by slicing some on top.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus bring crunch and color.

Variations and Substitutions

• Proteins: Grilled chicken, juicy shrimp, or crispy tofu are all great options.
• Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or whatever’s in your fridge.
• Cheeses: Swap Romano for Parmesan, feta, or even shredded mozzarella.
• Spice It Up: A dash of red pepper flakes or nutmeg can add some extra flair.
• Lighten It Up: Use olive oil instead of butter, or do a mix of both.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you!

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheat Like a Pro: Warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth for the best results. Or microwave it covered with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Burn the Garlic: Cook it on medium heat—garlic goes from golden to bitter in seconds!
• Save That Pasta Water: It’s like liquid gold for adjusting your sauce.
• Go Fresh: Fresh garlic and parsley make all the difference.
• Al Dente Always: No mushy noodles, please! Cook the pasta just right for the best texture.
• Unsalted Butter = Control: It lets you fine-tune the seasoning.

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• One-Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini
• Taco Tortellini Skillet
• Tuna Stuffed Pasta Shells