Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti or linguine
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat evenly.
Add Seasonings and Cheese
Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Add Parmesan cheese and toss again.
Adjust the Sauce
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles.
Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Cooking Tips
Salt the Pasta Water Well
This is the first opportunity to season the noodles and enhances the overall flavor.
Use Fresh Garlic
Freshly minced garlic provides the best aroma and flavor compared to jarred garlic.
Reserve Pasta Water
The starchy pasta water helps emulsify the butter and cheese, creating a silky sauce.
Finish with Parmesan Off Heat
Adding the cheese off heat helps prevent clumping and keeps the sauce smooth.
Variations
Add Chicken
Top with grilled or shredded chicken for a protein-packed meal.
Shrimp Garlic Butter Pasta
Sauté shrimp in the butter before adding garlic for a seafood version.
Lemon Garlic Butter Noodles
Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for brightness.
Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Vegetable Garlic Noodles
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g