Go Back
–+ servings
Garlic Butter Pasta

Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta in Just 20 Minutes for Dinner Bliss

This Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and delicious vegetarian dish, perfect for dinner in just 20 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 stick Unsalted Butter Adds richness; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides natural sweetness; shallots can be used for subtle flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Introduce bold flavor; use roasted for sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth; substitute with white pepper for gentler flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes Introduces heat; omit for milder dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Adds earthy herb notes; use fresh for fresher taste.
  • 1/4 cup Basil Contributes a sweet flavor; opt for fresh.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Adds creaminess; omit for dairy-free option.
  • 8 ounces Pasta Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well; gluten-free as substitute.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook until al dente (8–10 minutes). Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
  2. In a skillet, heat unsalted butter over medium heat until foaming, then add minced onion, cooking until translucent (3–4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add freshly grated Parmesan, stirring to melt into the butter sauce, creating a creamy base.
  4. Combine the drained pasta with the reserved pasta water in the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes as preferred, then garnish with more Parmesan and fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, use fresh garlic and herbs. Reserve pasta water for sauce consistency and adjust seasoning last before serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!