Name: Garlic Buttered Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces dried pasta noodles (long or short pasta); 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); Salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley (optional)

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Introduction

Garlic Buttered Noodles are a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together in minutes. With rich butter, fragrant garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this recipe transforms ordinary pasta into a comforting favorite.

A white bowl filled with one main layer of golden yellow spaghetti noodles, lightly coated in a glossy, oily sauce. The pasta is sprinkled with small bits of grated cheese and chopped green herbs unevenly scattered on top, adding texture and color contrast. A silver fork rests inside the bowl at the right side, partially touching the noodles. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces dried pasta noodles (long or short pasta)
4 tablespoons butter, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 3/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: In a skillet or Dutch oven large enough to hold the pasta, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté lightly, stirring frequently to flavor the butter without browning the garlic.
Step 3: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with kitchen tongs. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and toss so the cheese melts smoothly.
Step 4: Add some of the reserved pasta water a couple of spoonfuls at a time along with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss well, adding more pasta water as needed until the noodles are glossy and well coated.
Step 5: Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Give the pasta a final toss and serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
For added richness, stir in a splash of cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Swap the parsley for fresh basil or chives for a different herbal note.

Storage

Store leftover garlic buttered noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a plate with plain spaghetti pasta. The pasta is light yellow with a slight shine from oil and small bits of green herbs scattered throughout. The spaghetti is loosely tangled, with some strands wrapped around the end of a fork placed on the left side in the plate. The plate is white and round, set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time to ensure the noodles are al dente.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic over low heat and stir frequently. This allows the garlic to infuse the butter without browning or becoming bitter.