Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying, and this Butter Garlic Spaghetti proves that. Crafted with only a few simple ingredients, this dish is packed with garlic flavor and can be prepared in less than 20 minutes. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Table of Contents:
Total Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Siddhanath Metkari
Equipment’s:
Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe Video:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water, reserved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by heating a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil. Once boiling, toss in the spaghetti and cook it until it’s al dente, following the instructions on the package. Before draining, save 1/4 cup of the pasta water to help create the sauce later. Remove the pasta from the water and place it aside.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
As the pasta is cooking, warm the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it melt completely but keep an eye on it to avoid browning too quickly.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. You want the garlic to release its lovely aroma without getting burnt. If using, toss in red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the garlic is fragrant, reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the reserved pasta water. This will help emulsify the butter and create a glossy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the butter garlic sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the spaghetti is well coated. If the sauce seems too dry, add a little more pasta water.
Step 6: Add Parmesan and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding richness and a savory bite. Add salt and pepper to the pasta according to your preference.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness. If you love a bit of acidity, serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
Step 8: Enjoy
Serve your Butter Garlic Spaghetti immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. It’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
Tips:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, top the pasta with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche just before adding the pasta.
- Leftovers: This pasta tastes best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a bit of butter or olive oil to freshen it up.
This Butter Garlic Spaghetti is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a meal that’s full of flavor. It’s a go-to dish that feels like comfort on a plate.
Butter Garlic Spaghetti Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Calcium | 15% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value |
Health Benefits:
- Good Source of Energy: The pasta provides complex carbohydrates, fueling your body for sustained energy.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic has antioxidant properties that may help protect your cells from damage.
- Supports Immune Function: Garlic is also known for its immune-boosting qualities, helping to fend off illnesses.
- Bone Health: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
- Healthy Fats: Butter contains healthy fats that can promote brain function when consumed in moderation.
- Promotes Digestive Health: Garlic is believed to support gut health and promote digestion.
- Improves Circulation: Red pepper flakes may help improve blood circulation and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mood Booster: The carbohydrates in pasta may increase serotonin levels, which can improve mood and relaxation.
- Skin Health: The vitamin C in parsley supports healthy skin by promoting collagen production.
- Heart Health: Butter contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fat that may support heart health when consumed in moderation.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Butter Garlic Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the pasta can become mushy and lose its texture when reheated.
Reheat & Reuse Instructions:
Reheating:
- Stovetop: To warm it up, use a skillet on medium-low heat and add a little water, olive oil, or butter. This will help revive the sauce and keep the pasta from becoming dry.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Reuse:
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Mix in some sautéed shrimp with the warmed-up pasta to enhance the dish.
- Creamy Pasta: Reheat the pasta with a splash of heavy cream or milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Garlic Bread Crust: If you have extra, use the leftover pasta as a base for garlic bread toppings or bake into a pasta pie.
This Butter Garlic Spaghetti is simple yet satisfying, making it perfect for a quick, comforting meal any day of the week.
Best pasta for pesto?
The best pasta for pesto typically includes shapes that hold onto the sauce well, allowing the vibrant flavors of the pesto to shine. Here are some of the top pasta choices for pesto:
- Trofie
This traditional Ligurian pasta is often paired with pesto. Its twisted shape clings to the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is coated. - Fusilli
The spiral shape of fusilli is great for catching the pesto sauce in its grooves, making it a popular choice for pesto dishes. - Linguine
A long, flat pasta like linguine works well with pesto, allowing the sauce to coat the noodles evenly for a smooth, satisfying bite. - Spaghetti
A classic, simple spaghetti is a versatile option for pesto. The thin, long strands pair well with the creamy texture of the sauce. - Penne
Penne’s tube shape catches bits of pesto inside, making it a hearty option. It also works well in baked pesto dishes. - Orecchiette
These little “ear-shaped” pasta pieces are great for holding onto pesto, capturing the sauce in their cup-like shape.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any pasta that has some texture or shape to grab onto the pesto sauce.
FAQ’s
Q. How do you make butter garlic sauce for spaghetti?
To make butter garlic sauce, melt butter in a pan over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the garlic butter and add a little pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles.
Q. What’s the best way to keep garlic from burning in Butter Garlic Spaghetti?
Garlic burns quickly, so make sure to cook it on medium to medium-low heat. Stir constantly and as soon as it becomes fragrant and lightly golden (not brown), it’s ready. You can also lower the heat slightly if it’s cooking too fast.
Q. Can I add protein to Butter Garlic Spaghetti?
Absolutely, Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon work well with the buttery garlic flavors. You can sauté the protein in the garlic butter or cook it separately and mix it in at the end.
Q. What can I add to Butter Garlic Spaghetti for more flavor?
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, can also elevate the dish. You could even mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Q. Can I use olive oil instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, olive oil can be substituted for butter if you want a lighter or dairy-free option. It will still create a delicious garlic sauce, though butter adds a richer flavor. You can even do a combination of both for a balance of flavors.
Q. What type of pasta works best for Butter Garlic Spaghetti?
Classic spaghetti works perfectly, but you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair. Any long pasta shape will soak up the garlic butter sauce well. You can even try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
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