There’s nothing quite as comforting as a plate of warm, buttery garlic noodles. This dish is a simple yet indulgent classic that brings together the rich flavors of melted butter, fragrant garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Tossed with perfectly cooked egg noodles, it’s a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
What makes this dish even better is how effortlessly it comes together. In just 15 minutes, you can have a bowl of creamy, flavorful pasta that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a quick-fix meal, Buttered Garlic Noodles is always a delicious choice!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente.
- While the noodles cook, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 325 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Story Behind Buttered Garlic Noodles
Buttered noodles have been a staple in many cultures, particularly in Italian and American cuisine. Often served as a simple meal for children, this dish has evolved into a restaurant-worthy creation. Many high-end restaurants even serve a version of buttered noodles as a side dish alongside grilled steaks and seafood.
The simplicity of this dish makes it incredibly versatile. Some variations include adding mushrooms, shrimp, or even truffle oil for a gourmet touch. No matter how you prepare it, Buttered Garlic Noodles always hits the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Buttered Garlic Noodles is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients to create an irresistible, restaurant-quality meal. With its rich buttery flavor, the aroma of sautéed garlic, and a hint of Parmesan, this pasta is creamy, savory, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, an easy side dish, or a cozy meal, this recipe will never disappoint.
What Makes These Noodles Special?
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Flavorful & Comforting: The combination of butter, garlic, and cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Main Ingredients:
- Egg Noodles – These work best for their soft, chewy texture, but you can also use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.
- Butter – Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives the best aroma and flavor. You can adjust the quantity based on your preference.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich umami flavor; you can also use Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Parsley – Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a richer, silkier texture.
- Garlic Lovers’ Version: Roast the garlic before adding it for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Protein Boost: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for a more filling meal.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the noodles for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly version.
Dietary Adjustments:
- Make it Vegan: Use plant-based butter and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap butter for olive oil and use dairy-free cheese.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
- Gluten-Free: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
2️⃣ Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3️⃣ Combine & Toss
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and toss until evenly distributed.
4️⃣ Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of reserved pasta water and toss again.
Cooking Tips & Tricks for the Best Buttered Garlic Noodles
1️⃣ Use High-Quality Butter: Since butter is the star ingredient, choose a high-quality brand or use European butter for a richer taste.
2️⃣ Don’t Burn the Garlic: Garlic should be sautéed until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3️⃣ Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta will absorb the buttery sauce better without becoming mushy.
4️⃣ Toss While Hot: Immediately mix the pasta with the butter and garlic mixture to ensure the flavors infuse properly.
5️⃣ Add Cheese Off Heat: To prevent clumping, stir in the Parmesan cheese after removing the pan from heat.
What to Serve with Buttered Garlic Noodles
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and proteins:
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – A protein-packed addition that makes it a complete meal.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers complement the creamy noodles.
- Garlic Bread – Because who can resist extra garlic and butter?
- Side Salad – A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating Tips
✅ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
✅ Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
✅ Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked noodles separately and add fresh butter and garlic when reheating.
Conclusion
Buttered Garlic Noodles is more than just a simple pasta dish—it’s the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, buttery texture, fragrant garlic, and the nutty depth of Parmesan cheese, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a satisfying side dish, or a base to build a gourmet pasta creation, this dish is endlessly versatile and customizable.
What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to be enjoyed in so many different ways. You can keep it classic and simple or elevate it with proteins, vegetables, and additional seasonings to match your personal preferences. Plus, with its easy preparation and short cooking time, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm, indulgent, and utterly satisfying, try these Buttered Garlic Noodles. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy every buttery, garlicky bite!