There's nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of garlic butter noodles, especially when it comes together in a snap. This dish is the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor with the aromatic punch of garlic, all wrapped around tender pasta. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting side dish, this recipe is sure to deliver.
I first discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed something quick and delicious to feed my family. It’s now a staple in our household – simple enough for a last-minute meal yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Let’s dive in and see why this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Why You'll Love This Quick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this comforting classic. Garlic butter noodles are more than just a dish; they're a kitchen lifesaver.
First, this recipe is ridiculously fast and easy. In under 20 minutes, you can have a flavorful, satisfying meal on the table. Perfect for those nights when you’re running low on time but still want a home-cooked meal.
The ingredients are incredibly simple and affordable. You likely already have most of them in your pantry or fridge. With just a handful of staples like pasta, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, you’re set.
This dish is endlessly versatile. It’s delightful on its own, but you can easily dress it up with add-ins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables. Whether it’s a main course or a side dish, it fits any occasion.
Finally, it’s pure comfort food. The rich, buttery sauce clings to the noodles, while the garlic adds a flavorful kick. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is simple enough to make any day of the week.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of garlic butter noodles lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish's rich flavor and texture.
The pasta is the star of the show. Spaghetti or linguine work beautifully here, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. Make sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture.
Garlic is the heart of the flavor. Fresh garlic cloves, finely minced, are essential to achieving that robust, aromatic base. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as it doesn’t pack the same punch.
Butter forms the foundation of the sauce. Use high-quality unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning. The butter melts into a velvety sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.
A hint of olive oil adds depth to the flavor and keeps the butter from browning too quickly. It also helps the garlic cook evenly without burning.
Parmesan cheese ties it all together. Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the noodles, adding a salty, nutty finish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, double-check that your Parmesan is free from animal rennet.
Fresh parsley is optional but highly recommended. It adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note to balance the richness of the sauce.
How To Make This Quick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe

Making garlic butter noodles is as simple as it gets. With just a few steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve.
Start by boiling your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as this will help create the sauce.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the garlic butter. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as this can make the dish bitter.
Once the pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss the noodles to coat them evenly in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky consistency.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the noodles, tossing again to combine. The heat from the noodles will melt the cheese, creating a creamy, flavorful coating.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if using. Serve immediately while the noodles are warm and fragrant. Enjoy the rich, garlicky goodness in every bite.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with this dish), garlic butter noodles store wonderfully. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the noodles before microwaving or warming on the stovetop. This prevents them from drying out and helps recreate that creamy texture.
Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the butter-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it a perfect base for creativity in the kitchen.
For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon. These additions turn the dish into a hearty main course.
Vegetable lovers can incorporate roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or caramelized mushrooms. The vegetables add texture and flavor while making the dish more nutritious.
If you’re a fan of spice, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. It adds just the right amount of heat to balance the richness of the butter.
To make the dish vegan, substitute plant-based butter and nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese. It’s just as delicious and satisfying.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or chives for a fresh twist. You can also swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano if you prefer a sharper, tangier flavor.
Garlic butter noodles are a classic for a reason – they’re quick, easy, and endlessly delicious. Whether you stick to the original recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to be a hit.
PrintQuick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
This quick and easy garlic butter noodles recipe is a deliciously simple dish packed with buttery, garlicky flavor. Made with pantry staples, it's a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or a tasty side dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or noodles of choice
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in red chili flakes (if using) and the reserved pasta water. Mix well.
- Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet, coating them evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust garlic and butter quantities to suit your taste.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh tangy flavor.
- Great as a side dish or a light main meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
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