Quick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

There's something magical about the simplicity of Garlic Butter Noodles. The rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with melted butter is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

I first discovered this recipe during my college days when pantry staples were my best friends. Over the years, it’s become my go-to for a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Ready to dive into a bowl of buttery, garlicky goodness? Let’s get started.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite 15-minute dinner. These Garlic Butter Noodles are everything you could ask for: quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.

First, it’s lightning-fast. You can whip up this dish in less time than it takes to scroll through your favorite streaming app. Perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute lunch.

Second, it’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. From pasta to butter and garlic, there’s a good chance you already have everything you need to make this dish.

Third, it’s endlessly versatile. Add a protein like shrimp or chicken, toss in some veggies, or keep it as is for the ultimate side dish. The possibilities are truly endless.

Finally, it’s kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing. The buttery flavor and tender noodles make this a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

So, whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation. Let’s talk ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Garlic Butter Noodles lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to the dish's rich, comforting flavor profile.

• Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Short pastas like penne or rotini also soak up the buttery sauce beautifully.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish. If all you have is salted butter, just adjust the salt you add later.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here. Mince it finely or use a garlic press for even cooking.
• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish, adding a nutty, salty kick. Avoid pre-grated cheese for the best texture and flavor.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness, balancing the richness of the butter.
• Seasonings: A touch of salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes bring everything together with just the right amount of heat.

You’ll also need a large pot for cooking the pasta and a skillet or saucepan for the sauce. With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a restaurant-quality dish at home.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

Making Garlic Butter Noodles is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results every time.

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in the reserved pasta water, letting it simmer for a minute. This helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat every strand in the buttery garlic sauce. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and stir in chopped parsley. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the noodles to a serving dish, garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve immediately.

This entire process takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a comforting, flavorful dish ready in no time.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), Garlic Butter Noodles store beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Place the noodles in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the noodles.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Here are a few ideas:

1. Add Protein: Cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon make excellent additions. Toss them in with the noodles for a heartier meal.
2. Boost with Veggies: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted broccoli add color, flavor, and nutrition.
3. Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for an extra indulgent sauce.
4. Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so this swap is seamless.
5. Experiment with Cheese: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra cheesiness.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is incredibly forgiving. No matter how you tweak it, you’ll end up with a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a versatile side dish, these Garlic Butter Noodles deliver on all fronts. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal ready in minutes.

Time to grab your apron and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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