Name: garlic butter pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 200g pasta (7.1 oz); 25g salted butter (1 tbsp + 2 tsps); 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 150ml chicken stock (1/2 cup + 2 tbsps); 1/8 tsp black pepper; 1/8 tsp red chilli flakes; 1/4 tsp mixed herbs; 10g grated parmesan cheese (around 1/8 cup)

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 23 reviews

Get ready to fall in love with garlic butter pasta, the ultimate weeknight dinner that never fails to impress! This dish is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create absolutely craveable flavor: al dente pasta is swirled through a glossy garlic butter tomato sauce, kissed with fresh herbs and a handful of parmesan. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a pasta bowl that combines a buttery richness with a savory, garlicky punch—perfect when you want something cozy, quick, and deeply satisfying.

garlic butter pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of garlic butter pasta lies in its effortless simplicity—every ingredient plays a starring role, contributing either creamy richness, vibrant flavor, or a pop of color. Gather these pantry staples and a few fresh touches, and you’re set for pasta perfection!

Pasta: Choose your favorite shape; the key is to cook it just until al dente for that perfect bite and texture.
Butter (salted): Adds lush creaminess and a rich base for the sauce—unsalted works too, just adjust to taste.
Garlic (minced): The heart of the dish, giving a bold, aromatic flavor that infuses every bite.
Tomato paste: Deepens the sauce color and brings a concentrated tang that lifts the whole dish.
Chicken stock: Introduces savory depth and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
Black pepper: A subtle bit of earthiness for balance—freshly ground is always best!
Red chili flakes: Infuses the sauce with gentle heat; adjust to your spice preference.
Mixed herbs: Dried Italian or mixed herbs lend an aromatic lift and classic flavor.
Grated parmesan cheese: The finishing touch—nutty, salty, and meltingly delicious on top.

How to Make garlic butter pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in well-salted water with a splash of oil, following the package instructions for al dente perfection. That tender, chewy texture is essential—so resist overcooking! Once ready, drain the pasta and save a bit of the pasta water on the side. This reserved, starchy liquid is the secret weapon for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later on.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Place a large skillet or pan over low-medium heat and add 15g (1 tablespoon) of butter—you want to see it gently melting before tossing in all the minced garlic. Stir frequently and keep a close eye, letting the garlic sizzle until it just starts to turn a light golden color, about one minute. This short step unlocks all that magical, fragrant flavor without burning the garlic.

Step 3: Sauté the Tomato Paste

Now add the tomato paste straight into your garlic butter goodness. Bump the heat to medium, and cook for another minute or two—this helps intensify the tomato’s bright, rich notes, drawing out a hint of sweetness that rounds out the garlicky base.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock, then stir in black pepper, red chili flakes, and mixed herbs. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything well and bring the sauce up to a gentle boil. The aroma at this stage is irresistible, and the flavors will start mingling to create a silky sauce that just begs for pasta.

Step 5: Toss the Pasta In

Add your freshly drained pasta to the pan and gently toss it in the sauce until every strand or shape is shining and coated. Let it simmer together for about a minute over medium-high heat, allowing the noodles to soak up that savory, buttery, garlicky essence.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Parmesan

Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the remaining 10g (2 teaspoons) of butter along with all the grated parmesan cheese. This final touch turns the sauce velvety and cheesy, polishing your garlic butter pasta with an irresistible gloss. If the sauce looks too thick, just add a spoonful or two of that reserved pasta water to make it perfectly silky.

How to Serve garlic butter pasta

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh parmesan is always a winner for garlic butter pasta—shave or grate it generously over each bowl for that perfect salty kick. For extra color, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or even a light drizzle of olive oil. A pinch of red chili flakes and a twist of cracked black pepper add a lovely touch for those who like a bit more heat and fragrance.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a dream paired with a crisp, tangy green salad or garlicky roasted vegetables. A slice of warm, crusty bread—or better yet, garlic bread—makes a lovely sidekick, perfect for swiping up the last drops of sauce. If you crave something heartier, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or simple roasted veggies on the side for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn garlic butter pasta into an elegant dinner party dish by twirling it into individual nests on each plate and topping with a parmesan crisp or a few roasted cherry tomatoes. Or, serve family-style from a big, beautiful platter at the center of the table, letting everyone dig in. For a playful twist, pack it into jars for a cozy picnic lunch or tuck it into a thermos for pasta on the go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover garlic butter pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors only deepen as it sits, making leftover portions just as tempting the next day. It will keep well for up to three days, so feel free to enjoy for lunch or a second dinner.

Freezing

While freezing creamy pasta can sometimes change its texture, garlic butter pasta actually holds up reasonably well if you’re in a pinch. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. For best results, freeze for up to one month, and remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To restore your pasta’s saucy luster, reheat it gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of pasta water, milk, or even chicken stock to revive the sauce. Stir in an extra pat of butter if you’re feeling indulgent, and finish with a fresh sprinkle of parmesan to bring back that original creamy magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape for garlic butter pasta?

Absolutely! While long noodles like spaghetti or linguine are classic, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. The key is to just cook it al dente so it holds up beautifully in the buttery sauce.

What can I substitute for chicken stock?

You can swap in vegetable stock for a vegetarian version, or use chicken stock powder mixed with water if that’s what you have on hand. Even pasta cooking water alone can work in a pinch, but stock definitely adds more depth of flavor.

Can I add protein to this garlic butter pasta?

Definitely! Stir through cooked shrimp, sautéed chicken breast, or even sliced Italian sausage for a heartier meal. Just make sure to season your protein separately for maximum flavor that complements the pasta.

How can I make garlic butter pasta spicier?

If you love a fiery kick, bump up the red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the garlic. You could also serve with extra chili oil drizzled on top once plated.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! Simply reduce or omit the red chili flakes if your little ones are sensitive to spice. The creamy garlic butter sauce is mild and crowd-pleasing, making it a family-friendly pasta favorite.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for major comfort in a hurry, garlic butter pasta is your answer! It’s simple, scrumptious, and endlessly versatile. Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so quick can taste so luxurious. Enjoy every garlicky, buttery bite!