Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Name: Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love how this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta comes together so effortlessly! With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can whip up a delicious meal in about 20 minutes. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan is always a winning flavor, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet quick. This pasta is not only satisfying but can also be dressed up with additional veggies or proteins, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:04:48.750Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was a bit skeptical about how much flavor could be packed into such a simple dish. But to my delight, the garlic infused in the butter creates a fragrant base that perfectly complements the creamy Parmesan. I knew I had hit a sweet spot when I took the first bite!

In my kitchen, I’ve learned that cooking pasta to al dente is key. It retains just the right amount of bite even after being tossed in that rich garlic sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness, making every bite truly enjoyable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings.
Rich garlic flavor balanced with creamy Parmesan.
Easily customizable with your choice of proteins or veggies.

Understanding the Ingredients

The simplicity of this Quick Easy Garlic Parmesan Pasta lies in its ingredient list. Spaghetti is a fantastic base, but feel free to swap it for other pasta varieties like fettuccine or even gluten-free options. The key to this dish is using high-quality unsalted butter and fresh garlic; the garlic's pungency develops beautifully in the butter and becomes the primary flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts nicely, creating a creamy texture that binds the dish together.

While salt and black pepper may seem basic, they play a crucial role in enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. You can adjust these seasonings to your taste, but I recommend starting lightly and increasing gradually. If you're adventurous, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a mild heat that complements the richness of the cheese and butter perfectly.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking the pasta perfectly is crucial. It should be al dente, which means it remains slightly firm when bitten. Following package instructions typically provides good results, but timing can vary depending on the brand. A visual cue is to taste a strand about a minute before the package's indicated cooking time to check for doneness. Remember to reserve pasta water; this starchy liquid is your secret weapon to achieve the perfect creamy sauce consistency without needing heavy cream.

When it comes to sautéing the garlic, maintaining a medium heat is key. Too high, and it will burn, turning bitter. You want it to become fragrant and start to turn golden. This only takes about 1-2 minutes, and you'll know it's ready when it has a pleasant aroma filling your kitchen. Be vigilant during this step; the difference between perfectly sautéed garlic and burnt garlic is just a moment away.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Prepare the Garlic Butter

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the garlic butter. Toss to combine, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. If the pasta seems dry, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this dish warm for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter just before adding the pasta. You can also experiment with adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables to make this dish even heartier.

Customizing Your Pasta

One of the best things about this pasta recipe is its versatility. You can easily add vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to the dish. If you're looking to boost protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be great additions. Simply toss in your chosen ingredients after adding the garlic butter and allow them to cook just long enough to heat through, typically around 2-3 minutes for cooked proteins or fresh veggies.

For a creamier dish, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese alongside the parmesan. This addition can elevate the sauce, giving it a richer mouthfeel. If you want to experiment with flavors, a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar can brighten the dish and enhance the garlic and parmesan remarkably well.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to make this pasta in advance, cook it a little less than al dente, as it will continue to soften when reheated. You can store cooked pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove with a little reserved pasta water to revive the creamy consistency. This method ensures your pasta doesn't dry out and retains that appealing gloss.

Freezing this pasta dish is also an option, but do keep in mind that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you freeze it, make sure it's in a tightly sealed container. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in a pan with a splash of water or broth. Again, using reserved pasta water works wonders for creamy consistency. Just stir gently until heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.

→ Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the pasta and prepare the garlic butter in advance. Just combine them when ready to serve.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Try adding red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for an extra kick!