If you’re craving a dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor, this Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a comforting, aromatic plate of spaghetti that combines the richness of butter with the bold kick of garlic, all tied together with just the right touch of seasoning. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to impress friends without spending hours, this recipe delivers on all fronts with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making this Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe shine. Each one plays a crucial role, from the silky butter that coats every strand of pasta to the fresh garlic that offers a punch of flavor. Together, these simple staples create a comforting and irresistible dish.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The perfect canvas to soak up that buttery garlic sauce.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture without overpowering the garlic.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish its signature savory aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Brings a subtle heat to balance the richness, but feel free to skip it if you prefer mild.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of green color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: The finishing touch that adds a salty, nutty depth.
How to Make Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook Spaghetti to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This seasoning step is key for flavorful pasta. Add your spaghetti and cook it just until al dente—this means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Before draining, save about half a cup of pasta water; this starchy liquid works wonders in loosening and blending your sauce perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce
While your pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them, then sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on the garlic so it turns lightly golden and releases its rich fragrance, without burning. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the whole dish.
Step 3: Toss Pasta in Sauce
Once your spaghetti is cooked and drained (remembering that reserved pasta water), toss it directly into your skillet with the garlic butter. Stir everything gently to coat each strand in that luscious sauce. If it feels a bit dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches the perfect silky consistency.
Step 4: Season and Add Parsley
Now it’s time to bring the dish together by seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Then fold in the chopped parsley for brightness and a fresh herbal lift. This touch of green not only enhances the flavor but also makes your Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe look inviting and vibrant.
Step 5: Serve with Parmesan Cheese
Serve your spaghetti straight from the skillet or transfer to warm bowls. Don’t forget a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top—the salty, nutty cheese perfectly complements the buttery garlic sauce and really elevates this simple meal to a whole new level.
How to Serve Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can take your dish from simple to stunning. Freshly chopped parsley not only brightens up the flavors but also adds a lovely color contrast. For an extra savory touch, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can be delightful.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a light, crisp side salad to balance the richness. Think arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a classic Caesar salad. Crusty garlic bread is another excellent companion if you want to keep things comforting and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, twirl portions of your spaghetti onto a fork and arrange them neatly on individual plates. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or a thin lemon zest twist to add visual appeal. Serving it in shallow pasta bowls rather than deep plates helps showcase the glossy sauce and gives a rustic vibe that invites eager digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from drying out, you can stir in a little extra butter or olive oil before sealing it.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this pasta if needed. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 1 month. Just be aware the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving works as well; cover the container to retain moisture and heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. The garlic butter sauce clings well to most shapes, so use whatever you have on hand.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the seasoning because you add salt separately. However, if all you have is salted butter, just reduce the amount of added salt accordingly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a quality plant-based margarine or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. The garlic and seasoning will still deliver plenty of flavor.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the red pepper flakes?
Definitely. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be left out completely if you prefer a milder dish. The garlic butter sauce will still taste incredible without the heat.
How do I make the sauce thicker or creamier?
If you want a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right after the garlic is cooked. To thicken without cream, let the sauce reduce a bit longer on low heat before tossing in the pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe is proof that simple ingredients and straightforward steps can result in a truly satisfying meal. It’s versatile, quick, and packed full of flavor—exactly the kind of dish that fits perfectly into busy lives without sacrificing comfort or taste. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite weeknight dinners to whip up again and again.
Print
Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti recipe features tender spaghetti noodles tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. A simple, quick meal perfect for weeknights, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
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
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic butter. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help the sauce adhere better to the noodles.
- Adjust red pepper flakes amount depending on your heat preference.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice salty finish.
- Fresh parsley adds color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
