10/20/2026
These Garlic Butter Noodles are a quick, comforting dish made with tender pasta tossed in fragrant garlic, rich butter, and a touch of Parmesan. Simple yet delicious, they’re perfect as a speedy weeknight meal, a kid-friendly side dish, or a base for grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
• 12 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or egg noodles
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more for the pasta water
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice, optional
Directions
1. Boil the pasta water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt.
2. Cook the noodles: Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water.
3. Melt the butter: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
4. Cook the garlic gently: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly. Keep the heat low enough to prevent the garlic from browning or burning.
5. Add the seasonings: Stir in the black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Combine the noodles: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly so every strand is coated with the garlic butter.
7. Create a silky sauce: Add ¼ cup of reserved pasta water and toss. Add more a little at a time if needed to help the butter coat the noodles evenly.
8. Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Toss until melted and incorporated. If the sauce becomes too thick, add another splash of pasta water.
9. Finish with herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley and optional lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
10. Serve immediately: Divide into bowls and add extra Parmesan and black pepper. Serve as a side dish or add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make it a complete meal.
Recipe Details
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
• Servings: 4