Garlic Butter Pasta has become my go-to dish for a comforting yet luxurious meal. The delightful flavors of garlic and butter come together to create a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats any pasta shape you choose. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, making it a favorite in my kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Pasta

This Garlic Butter Pasta is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. Here are a few reasons why this dish is a must-try:

Rich, savory flavors from the garlic and butter blend.
Versatile—you can use any pasta shape, including Fettuccine in Garlic Butter Sauce or Garlic Butter Linguine.
Perfect for quick weeknight meals, taking only about 70 minutes to prepare and cook.
Easily customizable with add-ins like vegetables or shrimp, making it suitable for everyone, including Garlic Butter Pasta with Shrimp.
Great for meal prep; you can make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Vegetarian-friendly, satisfying those on a Diet that excludes meat.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pasta

Gather these items:

10 cloves Garlic (confit)
1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality, preferably infused with rosemary)
1/2 cup Butter (room temperature; salted or unsalted)
1 tsp Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
8 oz Pasta (dried or fresh, any shape)
1/2 cup Parmesan (grated; or use Grana Padano or vegan cheese)

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a baking dish, combine peeled garlic cloves with fresh rosemary, then cover them entirely with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Bake for 45-60 minutes, until the garlic turns golden and soft.
Step 2: Once the confit garlic has cooled, transfer it to a blender or food processor, along with softened butter. Blend until smooth and creamy. Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the pasta.
Step 3: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
Step 4: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the prepared garlic butter, then stir in freshly cracked black pepper. Pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring to create a silky sauce.
Step 5: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each strand in the garlic butter sauce. Heat through on medium-low for a couple of minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 6: Plate your garlic butter pasta, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with sprigs of rosemary or parsley and an additional dash of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Irresistible Garlic Butter Pasta with fresh ingredients and creamy sauce

Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Cooking the garlic slowly at a low temperature enhances its sweetness and depth.
Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it helps create a creamy sauce.
Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

A fresh green salad for a light meal.
Garlic Butter Pasta with Vegetables for a nutritious twist.
Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Pasta

If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This method helps keep the pasta from drying out and maintains its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Pasta?

The secret lies in using confit garlic, which provides a rich and mellow flavor. This method enhances the overall taste, making every bite heavenly, whether you choose Butter Garlic Noodles or Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta.

Can I make Garlic Butter Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter beforehand and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Pasta?

Avoid overcooking the pasta—aim for al dente. Additionally, make sure to reserve pasta water for a creamy sauce. This ensures your Garlic Infused Pasta remains luscious and not dry.

Variations of Garlic Butter Pasta You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Garlic Butter Pasta with Shrimp: Add sautéed shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
Vegetarian Garlic Butter Pasta: Toss in seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus for added nutrition.
One-Pot Garlic Butter Pasta: Combine everything in one pot for easy cleanup.
Garlic Herb Pasta: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic twist.

Delicious Garlic Butter Pasta served with fresh herbs and cheese

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or try making Creamy Tomato Soup as a comforting side!