Garlic Butter Noodles Recipe – Easy & Delicious Comfort Food
Garlic Butter Noodles are proof that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying comfort food. This dish has a way of turning an ordinary day into something special, thanks to the irresistible aroma of garlic sizzling in butter and the rich flavor that coats every strand of noodles. Loved across different cultures and kitchens, garlic butter noodles are often the first choice when time is short but cravings are big.
Busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or moments when you want something warm and familiar—all are perfect occasions for this recipe. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, garlic butter noodles deliver bold taste without complexity. The balance of savory butter, fragrant garlic, and perfectly cooked noodles creates a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable, making it a favorite for both beginner cooks and seasoned food lovers.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Noodles (spaghetti or egg noodles) | 200 g | 720 kcal |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tbsp | 300 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 5 cloves | 20 kcal |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | 10 kcal |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 30 g | 120 kcal |
| Red chili flakes (optional) | To taste | 5 kcal |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish | 5 kcal |
| Salt | To taste | 0 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook until tender yet firm. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain. - Prepare the garlic butter
Melt butter in a wide pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. - Season the base
Stir in soy sauce and red chili flakes if using. Lower the heat to avoid browning the butter too much. - Combine noodles and sauce
Add the cooked noodles directly to the pan. Toss well to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce. - Finish with cheese
Sprinkle in grated Parmesan and toss again until the noodles look glossy and well-coated. - Garnish and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add protein: Shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu make great additions.
- Extra garlic flavor: Roast the garlic beforehand for a sweeter, mellow taste.
- Asian twist: Add sesame oil and green onions for a fusion-style noodle dish.
- Cheesy upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or cheddar for a creamier texture.
- Healthier option: Use whole wheat or rice noodles and reduce butter slightly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650–700 kcal |
| Protein | 18–22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 70–75 g |
| Fat | 35–40 g |
| Sodium | Moderate |
Garlic butter noodles are rich and satisfying, making them ideal as a main dish or a hearty side.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Noodles pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or sautéed mushrooms. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness, while garlic bread or steamed broccoli completes the meal. These noodles also work well as a flavorful side for barbecues or family dinners.
Garlic Butter Noodles
2–3
servings5
minutes10
minutes650-700
kcalIngredients
200 g noodles (spaghetti or egg noodles)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce
30 g Parmesan cheese, grated
Red chili flakes (optional, to taste)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Salt (to taste)
Directions
- Cook noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce and chili flakes if using. Lower the heat to avoid burning.
- Add cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan and toss until noodles are glossy and fully coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Garlic Butter Noodles are all about timing and simplicity. For the creamiest, most flavorful noodles, always toss the cooked pasta with the garlic butter sauce off the heat to prevent the garlic from burning and becoming bitter.
FAQs
1. What makes garlic butter noodles so flavorful?
The combination of melted butter, sautéed garlic, and a touch of soy sauce or Parmesan creates a rich, aromatic sauce that coats every noodle, making the dish both simple and indulgent.
2. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! Spaghetti, egg noodles, fettuccine, or even rice noodles work well. The key is to cook them al dente and toss with the butter-garlic sauce while hot.
3. How can I make garlic butter noodles healthier?
Use whole wheat or zucchini noodles and reduce the butter slightly. Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers also increases fiber and nutrients.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even bacon bits pair perfectly with garlic butter noodles and turn it into a complete meal.
5. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Sauté garlic over medium heat and stir constantly. Remove from direct heat if needed before combining with noodles to avoid a bitter taste.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Noodles deliver comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every bite. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, this dish transforms everyday noodles into something truly crave-worthy. Whether enjoyed on their own or dressed up with proteins and vegetables, garlic butter noodles are a timeless recipe that belongs in every home kitchen.
