Easy Garlic Butter Parmesan Noodles
A quick and comforting garlic butter parmesan noodles recipe ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a simple, delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti or noodles of choice
- 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ¾ cup (75 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-9 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Save about ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Watch carefully to avoid burning the garlic.
- Toss noodles and sauce together: Drain the pasta well, then add it directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss or stir vigorously to coat every strand.
- Add parmesan and seasoning: Sprinkle ¾ cup (75 grams) freshly grated parmesan cheese over the noodles. Add ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper and toss again. If the mixture feels thick or dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
- Finish with parsley (optional): Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately: Plate up the noodles while warm. Optionally, add an extra sprinkle of parmesan on top.
Notes
Use unsalted butter to control salt levels. Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce and help it cling to noodles. Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Freshly grate parmesan for best melting and flavor. Toss noodles off heat after adding cheese to prevent clumping. Add pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about hal
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 58
- Fiber: 2.5
- Protein: 16
Keywords: garlic butter noodles, parmesan noodles, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, 15-minute meal