Easy • Pasta
Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles
These irresistibly simple noodles are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce and finished with a generous sprinkle of cheese.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 15 min
- Servings
- 4
- Level
- Easy
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Sometimes, the simplest things are the most delicious, and these Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles are proof! This recipe is pure comfort in a bowl – tender pasta coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, with a hint of warm spice, and finished with a blanket of melty cheese. It’s quick, easy, and undeniably satisfying, perfect for a side dish or a light, cozy meal.
Ingredients
Yield: 4 servings
Main
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Preparation
Step 1
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Pour in about 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously with tongs until the pasta is well coated and the sauce starts to emulsify.
Step 4
Remove from heat. Add the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing again until the cheese is melted and creates a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce seems too dry.
Step 5
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Tips
- Using good quality butter makes a noticeable difference in this simple dish.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream with the reserved pasta water.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.
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