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Garlic Butter Pasta

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Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick, comforting dish featuring tender pasta coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect as a main or side, it comes together in under 20 minutes with pantry staples.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
  • 4 tbsp butter (unsalted or salted)
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil to slow browning if desired.
  3. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter.
  5. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Top with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired, then serve hot.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
  • Try a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  • Add spinach or arugula for a leafy element.
  • Use garlic herb compound butter for extra flavor.
  • Sprinkle in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/garlic-butter-pasta/