Garlic Butter Pasta (One Pot!)

Garlic butter pasta is the perfect dish for all pasta lovers, quick dinner seekers, and beginner cooks. It’s simple, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. Made in just one pot, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and is ready in under 30 minutes.

Whether you're whipping up a weeknight dinner or craving comfort food, this dish will never disappoint.

This guide will show you everything you need to make garlic butter pasta from scratch, including tips for the creamiest sauce and suggested pairings to round out your meal.

Why Garlic Butter Pasta is the Ultimate Go-To Dish

What makes garlic butter pasta so special?

For starters, it ticks all the boxes:

Easy to make: Even a kitchen novice can pull this off without a hitch.
Minimal ingredients: You only need pantry staples like pasta, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to create magic.
One-pot recipe: Less mess, less hassle. Everything cooks in one pot!
Versatile: Enjoy it as-is or customize it with protein, vegetables, or extra spices.

Whether you’re preparing dinner in a hurry or looking to impress with a simple yet gourmet dish, garlic butter pasta is a recipe you’ll keep turning to.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this heavenly garlic butter pasta, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:

Pasta (12 oz): Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work perfectly. Feel free to use your favorite type!
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Butter is key to creating that rich, creamy base.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The heart and soul of the recipe. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use pre-minced garlic for convenience.
Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): For added flavor and creamy texture.
Chicken or vegetable broth (3 cups): To cook the pasta and enhance its flavor.
Water (1 cup): Helps ensure the pasta cooks thoroughly.
Salt and pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
Optional ingredients:
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a burst of freshness.
- Red pepper flakes (a pinch): For a spicy kick.
- Lemon zest (grated): Brightens the flavor.

Pro Tip: Grate your own Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and meltability. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent clumping but also make it harder to melt.

How to Make One-Pot Garlic Butter Pasta

This recipe couldn’t be easier! Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt.
Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbly, add the minced garlic.
Cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Pasta

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. If needed, break the pasta in half to fit.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the pasta, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Depending on the pasta type, this should take around 10-12 minutes.
Once the pasta is al dente, most of the liquid should have been absorbed, leaving you with a saucy base. If the pot is too dry, add a splash of water or broth.

Step 4. Finish the Sauce

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss well to combine until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Optional but encouraged: Stir in fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest for extra flavor.

Step 5. Serve and Enjoy!

Plate the pasta, garnishing with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve immediately while it’s hot for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Pasta

Don’t skimp on the garlic. This is what gives the dish its bold flavor.
Stir often while cooking the pasta to avoid clumping or sticking.
Adjust consistency. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it. If it’s too thin, simmer for a minute or two longer.
Use quality ingredients. Since this dish is so simple, the quality of your butter, cheese, and garlic will make a huge difference.

Delicious Add-Ons and Pairings

Garlic butter pasta is amazing on its own, but you can elevate it further by adding ingredients like:

Protein: Pan-seared shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon.
Vegetables: Broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
Mushrooms: A handful of sautéed mushrooms adds a rich umami flavor.

To round out the meal, try pairing the pasta with:

A crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or bruschetta for extra carb-loving goodness.
A glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Garlic butter pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich, garlicky flavors with the simplicity of a one-pot recipe. The next time you're short on time and craving something indulgent, this dish will save the day. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, making it a joy for both seasoned cooks and kitchen beginners alike.

If you’re ready to transform your pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy meal, give this recipe a try. We promise it’ll become a family favorite in no time!