Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Butter Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Combining savory herbs, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese, it’s both comforting and easy to prepare.

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 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 Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ lb. Shellbow pasta

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside. Measure out the remaining ingredients before starting, as the cooking process moves quickly.
2. Step 2: In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the mixed seasonings, stirring continuously until the butter begins to foam and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the shellbow pasta. Return to a gentle boil and cook uncovered according to the pasta package instructions. Use a silicone spatula to stir occasionally, scraping the bottom to prevent sticking. Taste the pasta to check for doneness.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
6. Step 6: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, cover the pot, and let it melt into the pasta. Gently stir it through before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth and omit the chicken bouillon cube.
• Try adding cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash more half and half or a little cream.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or half and half to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with most short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or bow ties. Adjust cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk or another plant-based cream instead of half and half. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 124 reviews

This creamy Garlic Butter Pasta combines a flavorful blend of dried herbs, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a rich buttery sauce. Made with simple ingredients and cooked entirely on the stovetop, this dish is a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any night of the week.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seasonings

• 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 pepper

Main Ingredients

• 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 Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ lb. Shellbow pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare Seasonings and Ingredients: Combine all the dried herbs and spices listed in the seasonings section and set them aside. Measure out all other ingredients and have them ready, as the cooking process moves quickly.
2. Sauté Garlic and Seasonings: In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the mixed seasonings, stirring continuously until the butter begins to foam and the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Bouillon: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the half chicken bouillon cube. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Cook Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the Shellbow pasta. Return to a gentle boil and let the pasta cook uncovered according to package instructions, typically around 7-9 minutes. Use a silicone spatula to gently lift the pasta from the bottom frequently to prevent sticking. Test pasta for doneness before moving on.
5. Add Cheese and Lemon Juice: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice for a bright finish.
6. Finish with Butter and Serve: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pasta and cover the pot to let it melt. Gently stir the melted butter into the pasta for a glossy, rich finish, then serve immediately.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Shellbow pasta or similar small shell pasta works best to hold the creamy sauce.
• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy.
• Stir frequently while cooking the pasta to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Keywords: Garlic Butter Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Parmesan Pasta, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Easy Pasta Recipe