When you’re short on time but craving a satisfying meal, our Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Pasta recipe is here to save the day! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, this dish comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy days when you need a fuss-free meal. Bursting with flavor from garlic-infused butter and fresh herbs, this simple pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to whip up this effortless and delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
- Season to Taste: Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that Parmesan cheese (if using) will also add saltiness to the dish.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the garlic butter pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve the Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Pasta immediately while it’s still hot. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can become bitter. Cook it just until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds brightness and flavor to the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs, but adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Customize with Add-Ins: Feel free to add cooked protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, as well as additional vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the garlic butter sauce for a citrusy twist.
- Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the garlic butter sauce for a creamy texture.
- Mushroom Garlic Butter Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy and satisfying addition to the dish.
With our Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Pasta recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal in no time at all. Simple yet flavorful, this dish proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques to create a satisfying pasta dish. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of garlicky goodness that’s sure to please the whole family!
