This garlic pasta side dish is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. It's made with just a handful of ingredients, and the garlic-infused butter coats every strand of pasta for a rich, satisfying taste.
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I've tested this recipe multiple times to get the perfect balance of garlic and butter. The key is to cook the garlic gently so it becomes fragrant without burning, which would turn bitter.
Whether you're serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a hearty steak, this pasta comes together in just 20 minutes and uses pantry staples you likely already have.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients
12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
Use any long pasta; whole wheat or gluten-free works too. For a twist, try fresh pasta for a softer texture.
6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
Salted butter can be used, but reduce added salt later. Olive oil can replace half the butter for a lighter sauce.
6 cloves garlic, minced
Use fresh garlic for best flavor; jarred minced garlic is a time-saver but less pungent.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Adds a gentle heat; skip if serving kids or omit for a mild version.
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated melts better; pre-shredded works but may contain anti-caking agents.
1/4 cup (60ml) pasta water, reserved
The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce; save before draining.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional but adds color; dried parsley can be used but less vibrant.
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Use kosher salt for seasoning; black pepper freshly ground for best aroma.
Tips & Tricks
- Reserve pasta water before draining; the starch helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Don't overcook the garlic; cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute, to avoid bitterness.
- Toss pasta with sauce over low heat to ensure even coating and creamy texture.
Pro Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (212°F/100°C). Add spaghetti and cook according to package until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Melt butter
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Add red pepper flakes and garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, but not brown.
3. Combine pasta
Add drained pasta to skillet. Toss to coat with garlic butter. Pour in 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, stirring continuously until sauce emulsifies and coats pasta, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cheese
Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley, tossing until cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately
Plate and serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or cheese if desired.
Delicious Variations
- Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a veggie-loaded version.
- Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed main dish.
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter, dairy-free option.
How to Store Garlic Pasta Side Dish
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
Freezer
Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little water or broth, stirring until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor. Use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for every clove, and add it with the butter to bloom.
Q: What pasta shapes work best?
Long noodles like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are traditional, but any shape works. Short shapes like penne or rotini hold sauce well too.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Ensure your Parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: How can I make this creamy?
Add 1/4 cup heavy cream or cream cheese along with the pasta water for a richer, creamier sauce.
Try this garlic pasta side dish tonight and elevate your dinner. For more quick and delicious recipes, subscribe to my newsletter!
Garlic Pasta Side Dish
This garlic pasta side dish is buttery, savory, and ready in 20 minutes. Perfect with any main course!
🧂 Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
- 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pasta water, reserved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
📋 Instructions
- 1Boil pasta — Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (212°F/100°C). Add spaghetti and cook according to package until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- 2Melt butter — In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Add red pepper flakes and garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, but not brown.
- 3Combine pasta — Add drained pasta to skillet. Toss to coat with garlic butter. Pour in 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, stirring continuously until sauce emulsifies and coats pasta, about 2 minutes.
- 4Add cheese — Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley, tossing until cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 5Serve immediately — Plate and serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or cheese if desired.
Marcus writes about personal finance and investing, with a focus on helping young professionals build wealth from scratch. He breaks down complex concepts into simple, actionable strategies.
