Pasta with Garlic Butter

Pasta with Garlic Butter is a quick and satisfying meal that requires only a few pantry staples. This dish works perfectly for busy weeknights when you want something warm and comforting. You can use any type of long pasta like spaghetti or linguine for the best results. The combination of rich butter and fresh garlic creates a simple yet delicious sauce that coats every strand.
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What makes pasta with garlic butter a good choice?

You will love how fast you can make Pasta with Garlic Butter from scratch. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find in any local supermarket. It is a versatile base that you can customise with extra vegetables or protein if you wish. The gentle heat of the garlic brings out the creamy texture of the melted butter.

Follow these 4 steps for pasta with garlic butter

Step 1
Boil pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the packet instructions. Make sure the pasta is firm to the bite before draining it. Keep a small amount of the cooking water aside for later.
Step 2
Prepare garlic: While the pasta boils, peel and mince the garlic cloves using a press or a sharp knife. Place a small pan over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil together. Let the butter melt slowly until it begins to bubble slightly. Add the minced garlic to the pan and fry it for about one minute until it smells fragrant but does not turn brown.
Step 3
Combine ingredients: Drain the pasta and return it to the large pot. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the hot pasta and toss everything together well. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly. The water helps create a silky texture that sticks to the pasta.
Step 4
Season and serve: Grate the parmesan cheese and chop the fresh parsley finely. Sprinkle these over the pasta along with a little black pepper. Toss one last time to mix the cheese and herbs through. Serve the Pasta with Garlic Butter immediately in warm bowls.

Important tips for pasta with garlic butter

Using a mix of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning too quickly in the pan. Make sure you do not overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter if it turns dark brown. You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to cut through the richness of the butter. If you want a bit of spice, a pinch of dried chilli flakes added with the garlic works very well. Always use fresh garlic rather than the jarred version for the best flavour in your Pasta with Garlic Butter. This dish is best eaten immediately while the butter is still melted and glossy.

Storing leftovers is easy in an airtight container, but you may need to add a tiny bit of water when reheating to loosen the sauce. Freshly grated parmesan provides a much better flavour and texture than the pre-grated variety found in packets.

You might also enjoy ravioli with spinach, skyr with topping or beef bake with vegetables.

Ingredients

servings
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  • 400 g spaghetti
  • 50 g unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 30 g parmesan cheese
  • 1 handful fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper

Cooking time

Kitchen tools

Nutrition information

NUTRITIONper serving
  • Energy:2029 kJ / 485 kcal
  • Fat:16 g
  • - of which saturates:9 g
  • Carbohydrates:72 g
  • - of which sugars:3 g
  • Protein:14 g
  • Fibre:4 g
  • Salt:580 mg

People also ask

Pasta with Garlic Butter usually takes about 10 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.
Follow the stated timings and temperatures. Stir or turn it only when the method calls for it.
Do not leave it over the heat for too long. Check the texture near the end and adjust the time if needed.
What do you think of this recipe?
4.7 / 5 - (11 ratings)