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Perfect garlic butter pasta with fresh herbs in rustic bowl

5 Secrets to Perfect Garlic Butter Pasta (Ready in 15 Minutes!)


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  • Author: Ines Zahraoui
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Description

 

This restaurant-quality garlic butter pasta recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into an aromatic, silky dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want comfort food that feels special.


Ingredients

What You’ll Need:

1 lb spaghetti or linguine

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

6-8 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

1 cup reserved pasta water

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

Here’s How to Make It:

  1. Bring large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta until al dente

  2. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium-low heat

  3. Add minced garlic and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden

  4. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining pasta

  5. Add drained pasta to skillet with garlic butter

  6. Add remaining 2 tablespoons cold butter and toss vigorously

  7. Gradually add pasta water until sauce is silky and coats pasta

  8. Season with salt, pepper, and add fresh parsley and cheese

  9. Serve immediately while hot

Notes

Things to Remember:

Use room temperature butter for smoother incorporation

Don’t skip the pasta water – it’s essential for proper sauce consistency

Cook garlic on medium-low heat to prevent burning

Fresh garlic works much better than pre-minced varieties

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Mediterranean Dinner Recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian/Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg