Quick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of garlic butter noodles. The rich aroma of sautéed garlic and melted butter fills the kitchen, promising a meal that's as satisfying as it is simple to make. These noodles are perfect for those nights when you want something delicious on the table fast, without a lot of fuss.

I first made this recipe on a whim during a particularly hectic week, and it instantly became a household favorite. Now, it's a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever we crave something cozy and flavorful. Let's dive into what makes this dish a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

Get ready to discover your new favorite quick-fix meal! These garlic butter noodles check all the boxes for taste, ease, and versatility.

First, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes – ideal for those busy nights when cooking feels like a chore. With minimal prep and cook time, you'll have a warm, hearty dish in no time.

Second, the ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly. Chances are, you already have everything you need to whip up this comforting dish. No special trips to the store required!

It's also a great base recipe to customize. Add veggies, protein, or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese to transform these noodles into something uniquely yours.

Finally, it’s universally loved. Kids adore the buttery, garlicky flavor, and adults appreciate its simplicity and elegance. Pair it with a side salad or serve it as is for a satisfying meal.

Ready to bring these irresistible noodles to your table? Let’s start with the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses a handful of simple, everyday ingredients to create a rich and flavorful dish. Here's what you'll need and why each ingredient matters:

• Spaghetti (or your favorite pasta): Spaghetti works beautifully for this recipe, but feel free to use linguine, fettuccine, or even short pasta like penne or rotini. The butter and garlic cling perfectly to any shape.
• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter on hand, just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Fresh Garlic: The star of the show! Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with a bold, aromatic flavor. For the best results, avoid pre-minced garlic from a jar.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the noodles. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and elevates the dish.
• Olive Oil: Combining butter with olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley brings a pop of color and a hint of herbaceousness to balance the richness.

Equipment You’ll Need

• A large pot for boiling pasta
• A skillet for making the garlic butter sauce
• Tongs or a pasta spoon for tossing the noodles

How to Make Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles

Making garlic butter noodles is as simple as it gets. Here's how to do it step-by-step:

1. Cook the Pasta
   Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
   While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted and foamy, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden (but not browned).
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well-coated. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
   Remove the skillet from heat and stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and toss again to combine.
5. Serve Immediately
   Transfer the noodles to plates or a serving dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!

Storage Options

Garlic butter noodles are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated for another meal.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While freezing isn’t ideal for this dish due to the texture of the pasta, you can freeze it in a pinch. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the noodles and warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. This helps revive the sauce and keeps the pasta from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about garlic butter noodles is how adaptable they are. Here are a few ideas to make this recipe your own:

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to turn this into a heartier main dish.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, or roasted cherry tomatoes make excellent additions.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a hint of heat.

Experimenting with these variations ensures you'll never tire of this classic dish!

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these quick and easy garlic butter noodles are a surefire hit. With their rich, garlicky flavor and simple preparation, they’re destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give them a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!

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