There's something magical about the simplicity of Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles. With its buttery, garlicky aroma and silky texture, this dish is a comfort food dream. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious without much effort, it comes together in under 20 minutes!

I first discovered this recipe during a hectic week when dinner needed to be fast, filling, and flavorful. What started as a way to use pantry staples has since become a family favorite, gracing our table as a main dish or side. Let’s dive in and discover why these noodles are about to become your go-to comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Quick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles
Get ready to fall head over heels for this recipe! These Garlic Butter Noodles are more than just quick and easy – they’re a revelation in the world of fast cooking.
First, this recipe is a time-saver. Whether you're rushing to whip up a meal after work or need a late-night snack, these noodles are ready in less time than it takes to scroll through a delivery app.
The ingredients couldn’t be simpler. You probably already have everything you need in your pantry and fridge. Butter, garlic, and parmesan come together to create a rich, savory flavor that feels anything but basic.
And let's talk versatility. These noodles are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. Picky eaters? No problem – this dish is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Finally, it's budget-friendly. With just a handful of affordable ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Ready to see what you’ll need? Let’s move on to the ingredients!
Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Garlic Butter Noodles lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of creamy, garlicky goodness.
- Pasta: Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine work best here, as their thin strands allow the sauce to cling beautifully. If you’re out of those, any pasta shape will do – even penne or rotini can shine in this dish!
- Butter: Go for unsalted butter to control the saltiness. Its creamy richness is the backbone of the sauce, making it smooth and luxurious.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that bold, aromatic flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic can work, but fresh will always pack a bigger punch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for the best texture and flavor. This adds a nutty, savory depth to the sauce that takes the noodles to the next level.
- Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle fruity note to the dish.
- Parsley: Optional but recommended, chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby contrast to the richness of the butter sauce.
You’ll also need basic kitchen equipment: a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for the sauce, and a pair of tongs to toss it all together.
How To Make This Quick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles

Making these noodles is as easy as it gets! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining – you’ll need it for the sauce!
- Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and a drizzle of olive oil. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the noodles evenly in the garlic butter mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the noodles and toss again. The heat from the pasta will melt the cheese, creating a silky, creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the noodles to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
These noodles are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated with a splash of water or broth to revive their creamy texture.
Storage Options
While these Garlic Butter Noodles are best eaten fresh, you can store leftovers for another meal. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Place cooled noodles in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the butter sauce can separate when thawed, leading to an unappealing texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the noodles gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or cream to bring the sauce back to life and prevent the noodles from drying out.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon to turn these noodles into a hearty main dish.
- Vegetarian Upgrades: Toss in roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil for a touch of heat.
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
- Herby Twist: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or chives for a different flavor profile.
No matter how you customize it, these Garlic Butter Noodles are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Have fun experimenting and make it your own!
This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Noodles recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver big flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for one, or hosting a dinner party, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it tonight and watch it disappear from the plate in no time!
PrintQuick And Easy Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe
This quick and easy garlic butter noodles recipe combines buttery garlic flavors with tender pasta, perfect for a comforting meal ready in no time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or noodles
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked noodles in the skillet with the garlic butter.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use your favorite pasta shape for variety.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Can be served as a side or main dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
Leave a Reply