Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Butter Pasta is a simple and delightful dish that brings flavor to your table without fuss. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting and tasty. The blend of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs creates a rich and creamy sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can enjoy a homemade meal in no time.
How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients:
- ¾ teaspoon dried basil
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¾ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ lb. Shellbow pasta
Directions:
- Combine all dried herbs and spices—basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper—in a small bowl and set aside.
- Measure out the remaining ingredients to have everything ready before you begin, as this recipe moves quickly.
- In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the combined dried seasonings. Stir continuously until the butter begins to foam, releasing the fragrant garlic and herbs.
- Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the half chicken bouillon cube. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly in the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the shellbow pasta and return to a gentle boil. Cook uncovered according to the pasta package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes. Use a silicone spatula to stir and scrape the bottom of the pot frequently to prevent sticking. Taste the pasta for doneness before proceeding.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot and cover it to allow the butter to melt. Gently stir the melted butter through the pasta for added richness, then serve immediately.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta
Serve Garlic Butter Pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Garlic Butter Pasta
To store any leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot and warm it slowly over low heat to bring back the creaminess.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Pasta
- Make sure to stir the pasta frequently while cooking to avoid sticking.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the seasoning according to your preference; add more herbs or spices if you like.
- For a touch of heat, toss in red pepper flakes before serving.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken bouillon cube. You can also add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk instead of half and half, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make this dish spicy?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to give the pasta a bit of a kick.
Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Combine all dried herbs and spices in a small bowl and set aside.
- Measure out the remaining ingredients to have everything ready before you begin.
- In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the combined dried seasonings. Stir continuously until the butter begins to foam.
- Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the half chicken bouillon cube. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the shellbow pasta and return to a gentle boil. Cook uncovered according to the pasta package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- Taste the pasta for doneness before proceeding.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot and cover it to allow the butter to melt.
- Gently stir the melted butter through the pasta and serve immediately.