Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving something decadent, deeply flavorful, and gloriously simple, you need this Garlic Butter Pasta in your life. Tender shellbow noodles are tossed in an ultra-creamy, buttery sauce bursting with garlic and Parmesan – it’s the weeknight comfort food you’ll want to make on repeat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the absolute joys of Garlic Butter Pasta is how a handful of pantry staples and a few flavor-boosters transform into such a luscious dish. Let’s look closely at what each ingredient brings to the party, from richness and warmth to that signature garlicky punch.

• Shellbow Pasta: These fun, twisty noodles hold pockets of sauce, making every forkful extra saucy and satisfying.
• Butter: Quality butter is the backbone of this recipe—divided to create both a perfectly cooked garlic base and a silky finish.
• Fresh Garlic: Four whole cloves infuse the pasta with savory, aromatic warmth—freshly minced is always best here!
• Chicken Broth: Gives body and savory depth to the sauce, making every bite rich and comforting.
• Half and Half: Half cream, half milk for a sauce that’s indulgent but not heavy.
• Soy Sauce: Unexpected but brilliant! Just a teaspoon adds serious umami and depth behind the scenes.
• Chicken Bouillon Cube: Amp up the flavor with concentrated savoriness—half a cube is just enough.
• Parmesan Cheese: Always use freshly grated—the cheese adds serious umami and helps make the sauce perfectly creamy.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Just a touch brightens up the whole dish and balances the richness.
• Herb & Spice Blend: Basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and black pepper lend classic Italian flavor with a twist.

Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Pasta is how easy it is to riff on. Don’t be shy—swap in your favorite extras, use what you have on hand, or lean into your family’s favorite flavors for a totally personalized bowl.

• Add Protein: Stir in sautéed shrimp, rotisserie chicken, or crispy bacon for extra heft and heartiness.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken broth and bouillon for veggie versions—it’s just as savory and satisfying.
• Spice It Up: For a gentle kick, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili with the garlic.
• Boost the Greens: Wilt a few handfuls of baby spinach or stir in chopped steamed broccoli for bonus nutrients and color.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your bouillon cube for wheat content.

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta

Step 1: Gather & Prep Ingredients

Before turning on the stove, assemble all your measured ingredients and combine the dry seasonings in a small bowl. Since Garlic Butter Pasta comes together quickly, a little prep now keeps things smooth and stress-free later on!

Step 2: Toast the Garlic & Spices

Add three tablespoons of butter to a soup pot over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and your prepared seasoning blend, letting everything sizzle gently until the butter foams and the kitchen is filled with mouthwatering aromas—keep the garlic moving to prevent burning!

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now pour in the chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, and bouillon cube. Give everything a good stir, scraping up anything tasty at the bottom. This liquid will transform, right before your eyes, into a deeply flavorful sauce as the pasta cooks.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, add your shellbow pasta, then return to a gentle boil. Cook uncovered, stirring regularly—especially along the bottom of the pot—to keep the pasta from sticking and ensure every piece cooks evenly in all that garlicky goodness. Taste to check for perfect doneness!

Step 5: Finish with Cheese & Lemon

Lower the heat, then gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese by the handful, allowing each addition to melt before continuing. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, which brightens and unifies all the flavors.

Step 6: Melt, Stir & Serve

Add the final tablespoon of butter, cover the pot briefly to let it melt, then gently stir one last time. Dish up your luscious Garlic Butter Pasta immediately, and bask in the applause!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta

Garnishes

Shower your pasta with extra freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil, and a few grinds of black pepper. For a restaurant-worthy flourish, a splash of good olive oil or a scatter of toasted pine nuts is irresistible!

Side Dishes

Turn your Garlic Butter Pasta into a dream dinner by adding a vibrant green salad with zippy vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or a crusty loaf of warm garlic bread—ideal for swiping up every bit of that incredible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the pasta into wide, shallow bowls for maximum sauce surface, or twirl it into little nests using tongs for an elegant dinner-party look. For a family-style vibe, present it straight from the pot at the table—just add garnishes and watch it disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Garlic Butter Pasta cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps beautifully for up to three days—making lunch the next day downright dreamy.

Freezing

While this pasta is at its creamiest fresh, you can absolutely freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the best sauce texture.

Reheating

To revive Garlic Butter Pasta, add a splash of milk or broth and gently rewarm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. This little trick restores the silky sauce and keeps the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Garlic Butter Pasta, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to comfort dish. Each forkful is a celebration of simple, soulful flavors—perfect for gathering loved ones or treating yourself to a cozy night in. Go on, give it a whirl and savor every last garlicky, buttery bite!

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