Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan

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When comfort calls and you crave something simple yet indulgent, these Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan deliver every time. Creamy, savory, and rich with nutty parmesan and golden garlic, this dish is pure pasta perfection. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight favorite and an effortless crowd-pleaser.

What makes these noodles so special is their balance. The butter coats each strand of spaghetti like velvet, while the garlic adds depth and warmth. Parmesan melts in to create a silky, cheesy finish. Sprinkle over a touch of chopped parsley, and you’ve got a restaurant-style dish made right in your kitchen.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan?

Spaghetti or linguine are classic picks for this buttery garlic dish. Their long shape holds the sauce well and gives a satisfying slurp. But don’t be afraid to swap in fettuccine or even angel hair if that’s what you have on hand. The key is cooking the pasta al dente so it absorbs the buttery garlic goodness without becoming mushy.

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Ingredients for the Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan

• Unsalted Butter – The base of the sauce, butter gives the dish its rich and silky texture. Unsalted is best so you can control the seasoning.
• Fresh Garlic – Sautéed until just golden, garlic brings a bold, fragrant flavor that defines this recipe.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds salty, nutty depth. Skip the pre-shredded stuff if you can.
• Pasta (Spaghetti or Linguine) – Choose your favorite long pasta to carry the buttery sauce.
• Pasta Water – A splash of starchy pasta water helps emulsify the butter and cheese into a smooth, clingy sauce.
• Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning, simple is best. Let the garlic and cheese shine.
• Fresh Parsley – A pop of green for freshness and color at the end.

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How To Make the Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil your spaghetti or linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just turning golden. Don’t let it burn.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat evenly. Add ¼ to ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to help create a glossy sauce.

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan

Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan and continue tossing until it melts and clings to the noodles. Add a bit more pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Top with chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh contrast.

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How to Serve and Store Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan

Serve these noodles hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. They’re perfect as a main dish with a crisp green salad or a side to grilled chicken or shrimp. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

To store leftovers, let the noodles cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra butter in a skillet over low heat to revive the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly. Garlic cooks quickly—1 to 2 minutes is all it needs.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

It’s not recommended. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a much richer flavor.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can try using vegan butter and nutritional yeast, but the texture and flavor will be different.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, chicken, or even crispy tofu work beautifully with these noodles.

Do these noodles work for meal prep?

They can be stored and reheated, but the texture is best when served fresh. Use leftovers within 2–3 days.

What herbs can I use besides parsley?

Basil or chives make great alternatives if you want to change up the flavor.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If these Buttery Garlic Noodles with Parmesan made your night, here are more creamy, cozy dishes to bookmark next:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli if you’re craving a heartier pasta night.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a meaty, satisfying one-pan meal.
• Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight for a pop of color and heat.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon when you want a pasta side that complements something elegant.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for when cheesy comfort food calls.

You can also explore more daily dinner inspiration on my Pinterest board here.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add shrimp or keep it vegetarian? Use angel hair or stick to spaghetti?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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