Creamy garlic butter pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, indulgent, and packed with flavors of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese. This dish is quick and easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat.
In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to create a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (350g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved from boiling the pasta)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Extra parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the Seasoning & Cheese
- Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add ¼ cup of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. If needed, add more pasta water for a thinner consistency.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss everything together until well coated.
- Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the creamy flavors.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Variations and Customizations
- Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Make it spicy: Increase red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Veggie boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Lighter version: Substitute milk for heavy cream and use less butter.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta
✔ Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—avoid garlic powder.
✔ Do not overcook the garlic, or it will turn bitter.
✔ Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce.
✔ Use freshly grated parmesan for a richer taste—pre-packaged cheese doesn’t melt as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Ready in just 20 minutes – perfect for busy days.
✅ Rich, creamy, and packed with garlic butter flavor.
✅ Customizable – add protein, veggies, or extra spice.
✅ Restaurant-quality pasta made right at home.
Make this homemade creamy garlic butter pasta tonight and enjoy an easy, delicious meal with minimal effort!
