If you’re craving something simple yet bursting with fresh, comforting flavors, this Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe is exactly the dish to whip up. Imagine tender pasta shells coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, brightened by a trio of fragrant herbs and finished with nutty Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, ready in under 30 minutes with ingredients you likely already have. This recipe effortlessly transforms humble pantry staples into a vibrant, satisfying dinner that the whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep things straightforward and accessible, while each one plays a key role in delivering the delicious layers of this Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe. From the aromatic garlic to the fresh herbs, every component adds texture, color, and flavor that makes this dish special.
- 8 ounces pasta (shells preferred): The shape traps sauce perfectly for every bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates the rich, silky base for the sauce.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with that unmistakable savory punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
- 2 tablespoons parsley (finely chopped): Brings fresh herbaceous brightness and lovely green flecks.
- 2 tablespoons basil (thinly sliced or chopped): Offers sweet, aromatic notes that elevate the pasta.
- 2 tablespoons chives (finely chopped): Adds a mild oniony flavor and vibrant color contrast.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding salty richness and depth.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Start by cooking your pasta in salted boiling water following the package instructions, aiming for that perfect al dente texture. This creates the ideal base that holds up well against the buttery sauce without turning mushy. Just before you drain it, be sure to reserve about half a cup of that magical starchy pasta water; it’s a secret ingredient that helps your sauce bind beautifully.
Step 2: Infuse Butter with Garlic and Red Pepper
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Let the garlic soften and release its flavor gently into the butter without browning—this step infuses the whole dish with its signature garlicky warmth and a touch of spice if you choose to include it.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Herbs, and Parmesan
Drain the pasta, then toss it directly into the skillet with the garlic herb butter. Add your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped parsley, basil, and chives. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water, then turn off the heat. Toss everything together continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce clings beautifully to each piece of pasta. Add more pasta water little by little if needed—the goal is a creamy, silky coating that’s just right.
Step 4: Season and Serve Immediately
Finish by seasoning the pasta generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve right away, with some extra Parmesan grated on top for an irresistible final touch. This simple step brings everything together into a harmonious burst of flavor on your plate.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or a few fresh herb leaves on top for a beautiful presentation and extra aroma. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also elevate the flavors while adding a subtle brightness that complements the buttery richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out your meal. A simple tomato salad or steamed asparagus offers a fresh contrast, making your dinner feel complete without overshadowing the pasta’s delicate herb-infused notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this pasta in warm bowls topped with edible flowers or a sprinkle of crushed toasted nuts for intriguing texture. You can also layer it in transparent glass dishes to show off the colorful herbs interspersed throughout, turning a humble plate of pasta into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely), store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy that wonderful garlic herb flavor again with minimal effort.
Freezing
Freezing this pasta isn’t ideal because the delicate herb and butter sauce can separate, and the pasta might lose its perfect texture. For best results, prepare fresh batches as needed or freeze the cooked pasta without sauce and toss with fresh sauce when reheating.
Reheating
When reheating your stored Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe, do so gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth. This helps revive the sauce’s silky texture and prevents the pasta from drying out, keeping that delightful creaminess intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shells work great because they hold the sauce well, feel free to experiment with spaghetti, penne, or farfalle — just make sure to cook to al dente so the texture stays firm and satisfying.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs are ideal for the vibrant flavor and color they add in this Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe. However, if you only have dried herbs on hand, use them sparingly and add earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to develop.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter, omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative, and be sure to check your pasta doesn’t contain eggs. You’ll still get plenty of flavor from the garlic and fresh herbs.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas make excellent additions that complement the light garlic and herb flavors without overpowering them.
How spicy is this Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a subtle heat that can be adjusted to your preference or omitted entirely if you prefer a milder, purely buttery herb flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply magical about the ease and freshness packed into this Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe. It’s a quick, comforting dish that feels special enough for any night of the week yet uncomplicated to prepare. I hope you fall in love with the way those fragrant herbs and savory butter bring every bite to life. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Garlic Herb Butter Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Herb Butter Pasta recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a simple weeknight meal. Combining al dente pasta with a luscious garlic-infused butter sauce, fresh herbs, parmesan cheese, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, it offers a comforting and aromatic taste experience that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (shells recommended)
sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons basil, chopped or sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining to use in the sauce.
- Prepare garlic butter sauce: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about one minute while stirring frequently to infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
- Reserve pasta water: Just before draining the pasta, save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to help create the sauce.
- Combine pasta with sauce and herbs: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the parmesan cheese and fresh herbs (parsley, basil, chives). Pour in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and turn off the heat. Toss continuously until the cheese melts and the pasta is evenly coated. Add more pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Season and serve: Season the pasta generously with salt and pepper. Serve immediately with extra grated parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to create a creamy sauce and help the cheese melt smoothly.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness or omit for a milder dish.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted or adjusted based on preference; parsley, basil, and chives complement the flavors well.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and fresh flavors.
