If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort with simplicity, this Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together the rich creaminess of butter, the irresistible aroma of garlic, and the satisfying twirl of spaghetti for a meal that feels both elegant and utterly homey. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a quick yet impressive plate, this recipe turns few humble ingredients into a feast of flavor that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity, and every ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and freshness. From silky butter to fragrant garlic and bright parsley, these basics come together effortlessly.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the buttery garlic sauce with every bite.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that essential punch of aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For just a hint of heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering the buttery goodness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: Adds a salty, umami finish that ties everything together wonderfully.
How to Make Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Cooking the spaghetti until al dente is key — you want it tender but with a little bite. Don’t forget to save half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid will help create the silky sauce later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, gently melt the butter until it begins to foam. Toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, stirring as they cook for 1 to 2 minutes. You’re aiming for the garlic to become fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. This step fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma that’s a promise of deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Toss the Pasta in the Sauce
Once the garlic butter is ready, add the cooked spaghetti straight into the skillet. Use tongs or a fork to toss the pasta thoroughly, ensuring every strand is coated with that luscious garlic butter. Add the reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce, creating a velvety finish that clings temptingly to the noodles.
Step 4: Season and Add Fresh Parsley
Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste buds. Then sprinkle in the chopped parsley, giving the dish a fresh herbal brightness and a lovely splash of color that makes every bite as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Step 5: Serve with Parmesan
Plate the spaghetti immediately and generously top it with grated Parmesan cheese. The salty, nutty cheese melts slightly on the warm pasta, adding an irresistible finish to this simple yet dazzling dish.
How to Serve Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to jazz it up, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch or a little extra fresh parsley for brightness. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a refreshing twist that highlights the dish’s buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This spaghetti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes make wonderful companions, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, plate the spaghetti in neat nests on each dish, topping with a sprig of parsley or basil. Using colorful bowls can also elevate the experience, encouraging conversation and making dinner feel special even on an ordinary night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from sticking together, stir in a little extra butter or olive oil before refrigerating.
Freezing
While freezing pasta can sometimes compromise texture, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and when ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the saucy consistency. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the dish and stir halfway to heat evenly without drying out the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly here, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. The sauce clings beautifully to many pasta shapes, so it’s all about your preference.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the salt level in your dish. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt accordingly to avoid over-seasoning.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You sure can! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute for that cheesy finish. The garlic flavor remains just as vibrant and comforting.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Fresh parsley adds brightness, but if unavailable, dried parsley can work in a pinch—use less since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh basil or chives can provide a lovely herbal note as well.
How spicy will it be with red pepper flakes?
The amount used offers just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the quantity or leave it out entirely depending on your spice tolerance and preference.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe this Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves simple but overwhelmingly delicious meals. It’s quick to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers a comforting yet sophisticated taste that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try—you might find it becoming one of your fastest favorites!
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Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti is a quick and flavorful pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Made with simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while Parmesan cheese provides a savory finish.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 8 oz spaghetti
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce and help it adhere to the spaghetti.
- Season: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley to add freshness and color to the dish.
- Serve: Serve the butter garlic spaghetti immediately, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory finish.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to preference.
- Reserve pasta water is key for achieving a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
- Fresh parsley adds vibrant flavor, but you can substitute with basil or oregano if desired.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as well.
- This recipe can be doubled easily to serve more people.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
