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A plate of spaghetti tossed in golden garlic butter sauce, garnished with Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Easy Butter Garlic Spaghetti


  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick and comforting pasta dish made with butter, garlic, Parmesan, and simple seasonings. Ready in just 20 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 45 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil (optional)
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat in garlic butter. Add pasta water if needed.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Garnish with herbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Try linguine or fettuccine as pasta alternatives.
  • Add shrimp, chicken, or bacon for protein.
  • Vegan? Use plant-based butter and cheese.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 510
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: easy butter garlic spaghetti, garlic pasta, weeknight pasta recipes, quick dinners, garlic butter sauce