Some days, you just want simplicity in your life—and on your plate! That’s where this Garlic Butter Pasta comes in. It’s buttery, garlicky, and so comforting, you’ll want to make it on repeat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this dish delivers big flavor with just a handful of ingredients. I’m Ali in the Valley—let’s get to it!

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: Lemon zest or juice for brightness

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. If you like heat, stir in the red pepper flakes.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
4. Finish with Flavor: Toss in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest or juice if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley. Enjoy immediately!

The Ultimate Garlic Butter Pasta – Easy & Delicious

Recipe by Alison J. Ball

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: Lemon zest or juice for brightness

Directions

• Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
• Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. If you like heat, stir in the red pepper flakes.
• Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
• Finish with Flavor: Toss in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest or juice if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley. Enjoy immediately!

Recipe Video