Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta in 20 Minutes

ByHuma Family Dinner

Rich, luscious, and full of comforting garlic flavour, this Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta in 20 Minutes is the perfect quick dinner for busy days. With its velvety smooth sauce and tender pasta, it delivers restaurant quality indulgence using simple, everyday ingredients. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or preparing something special without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe brings together luxury and convenience in every bite.

Ingredients List

  • 8 ounces pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional for brightness)

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta?

To begin, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Once cooked, reserve half a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Meanwhile, prepare the garlic butter by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat, then gently sauteing the minced garlic until fragrant making sure it doesn’t burn.

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, letting it simmer briefly before adding the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes silky and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to this creamy mixture and toss thoroughly, using the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Finish by sprinkling parsley and lemon zest, then serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Cooking Time

This recipe requires minimal preparation, needing only 5 minutes to gather ingredients and set up. The cooking process takes about 15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a complete, flavourful pasta dish in a total of 20 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides approximately 450 calories, 15 grams of protein, 48 grams of carbohydrates, and 22 grams of fat. It also contains around 2 grams of fibre and 3 grams of sugar, making it a satisfying yet balanced meal option.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to two days. When reheating, warm the pasta gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back its creamy texture. Avoid overheating or microwaving for long periods to prevent the sauce from separating.

Seasonal Relevance

This pasta suits all seasons. Its warm and comforting flavours make it ideal for winter, while the quick, light preparation keeps it perfect for warm summer nights. Seasonal herbs can be added throughout the year to enhance both taste and presentation.

Garlic Butter Pasta
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Garlic Butter Pasta

Recipe by Huma
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

450

kcal
Total time

35

minutes

This Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and indulgent meal ready in just 20 minutes. Rich, buttery, and garlicky, it’s tossed with Parmesan and fresh herbs for a restaurant-quality pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve desired creaminess.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for extra protein and flavour.
  • For a lighter version, use half and half or milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

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