You are going to fall in love with these quick and easy Garlic Butter Noodles! They are packed with flavor and come together in less than 30 minutes.
This Garlic Butter Noodles recipe is a game changer for weeknight meals. They are creamy, flavorful and filling and my whole family loves it! This recipe only takes 30 minutes to make, but if you have extra time on hand I love adding in fresh vegetables and a protein to make it a one pot dish.
I’m always on the hunt for recipes that the whole family loves, and this one is just that. It’s right up there with our Lightened Fettuccine Alfredo and Broccoli White Cheddar Shells and is loved by everyone!
Table of Contents
Why I Love These Garlic Noodles
- The rich, buttery flavor of Garlic Butter Noodles is irresistibly comforting.
- Quick and easy to prepare, this noodle recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Garlic Butter Noodles is lighter than traditional pasta dishes, making it a guilt-free choice.
Recipe Ingredients
Butter – I recommend using unsalted butter for a better control over seasoning. It melts smoothly into the noodles.
Garlic – Adds deep savory notes that infuse the dish with rich flavor.
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese – Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor. It adds a salty, nutty richness.
For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.
Variations
Add-Ins – For a flavorful twist on Garlic Butter Noodles, toss in fresh herbs like basil for a fragrant lift or a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. You can also toss in veggies like steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or baby spinach for added texture.
Pasta Alternatives – Egg noodles bring a buttery richness, while whole wheat noodles offer a nuttier flavor. Gluten-free pasta or rice noodles are great swaps. Spaghetti noodles or ramen noodles also work great.
Protein Boost – For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or pan-seared tofu. They all pair well with the buttery garlic sauce.
How to Make Garlic Butter Noodles
Step 1: In a large stockpot full of salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions.
Step 2: Meanwhile, in a small saucepan set over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent and fragrant. Do not brown the garlic! Add the salt and pepper and remove from the heat.
Step 3: Drain the pasta, and return to the large stockpot. Pour the garlic-butter sauce over top, and stir to combine. Allow the pasta to rest for 3-4 minutes so that it can absorb some of the sauce. Serve and garnish with cheese and parsley (if desired).
Expert Tips
Reserve Pasta Water – Don’t forget to save a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid works wonders in helping the garlic butter sauce cling to the noodles and adjust the consistency.
Efficient Garlic Mincing – For quick garlic prep, press the cloves with the flat side of a knife to loosen the skin. After peeling, smash them again to make mincing much easier and faster.
FAQs
Parmesan cheese is an imitation of Parmigiano Reggiano. You can use both in this recipe for a rich flavor profile without using all of your nice expensive cheese.
You can use garlic powder in your garlic butter noodles, but note that it won’t carry the same kick and authentic taste.
Storage Info
STORE Garlic Butter Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and sauce may become undesirable upon thawing.
To REHEAT, place the noodles in a large skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of water or extra butter to prevent them from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
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Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta - whole wheat or regular
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter - OR ⅓ c. olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic - minced
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese - grated
- 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese - grated
- 1-2 tbsp fresh parsley - chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large stockpot full of salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan set over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent and fragrant. Do not brown the garlic! Add the salt and pepper and remove from the heat.
- Drain the pasta, and return to the large stockpot. Pour the garlic-butter sauce over top, and stir to combine. Allow the pasta to rest for 3-4 minutes so that it can absorb some of the sauce. Serve and garnish with cheese and parsley (if desired).
Loved how quick this came together, perfect for busy nights.
These noodles are delicious! I served them alongside grilled chicken, steamed sugar snap peas, and a watermelon and cantaloupe bowl. My boys, age 17 and 22, loved them. Thanks so much for such a simple but super flavorful recipe!