garlic butter sauce for pasta recipe

The Best garlic butter sauce for pasta recipe

This garlic butter sauce for pasta recipe is one of my family’s favorites, and for good reason. It’s a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

The combination of garlic, butter, and parsley creates a rich and savory sauce that’s perfect for coating your favorite pasta shapes. I love serving this dish to my kids because it’s a great way to get them to eat more vegetables – just add some steamed broccoli or spinach to the side, and they’ll never know they’re eating greens!

This recipe is also a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Want to add some protein? Throw in some cooked chicken or shrimp.

Prefer a lighter version? Use less butter and add more olive oil.

The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so special.

Garlic Butter Sauce for Pasta

4.7 from 1768 votes

A rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. This recipe is easy to prepare and will satisfy your cravings for a comforting, creamy dish.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2Add pasta and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes.
3Drain pasta in a colander, reserving some pasta water for adjustments.
4While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
6Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7Stir in the chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
8Cook for an additional 1 minute, until the parsley is slightly wilted and the flavors are well combined.
9Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
10Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
11If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
12Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
13Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Colander
Large skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For a lighter version, use half the amount of butter and add a splash of cream.

This garlic butter sauce for pasta is a dream come true for any occasion. It is a dish that can be served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion and is always a hit with family and friends. It’s easy to make and can be customized with various ingredients to suit different preferences and dietary needs.

It is a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Plus, it can be made in advance and reheated for a quick and delicious meal. I highly recommend this recipe for anyone looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

It is a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Plus, it can be made in advance and reheated for a quick and delicious meal. I highly recommend this recipe for anyone looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Sauce for Pasta

1. How much garlic should I use for the sauce?

The amount of garlic can be adjusted based on personal preference. For a classic garlic butter sauce, I use about 4-6 cloves of garlic for every 1/2 cup of butter. This ensures a rich garlic flavor without overpowering the dish. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can reduce the amount to 2-3 cloves.

2. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

While butter is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with olive oil for a healthier option. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different, as olive oil has a distinct taste compared to butter. You may need to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.

3. What type of pasta is best for this sauce?

Any type of pasta can be used for this recipe, but I find that long pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine works best. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully, and the textures complement each other well. Short pasta like penne or fusilli can also be used, but they may not hold the sauce as well.

4. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor to the dish. Sauté the vegetables in the garlic butter before adding the pasta to ensure they are cooked to your liking.

5. How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, you can simply omit any meat or use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The garlic butter sauce is naturally vegetarian, and adding vegetables or a variety of herbs will make it even more flavorful. You can also add tofu or tempeh for added protein.

6. Can I freeze the garlic butter sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the garlic butter sauce for up to 3 months. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little bit of water or broth to adjust the consistency. This will save you time and effort for future meals.

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