Amazing Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio in 15 min

Name: Amazing Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio in 15 min
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 14 ounces spaghetti; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

by Jannet Lisa

27 de September de 2025

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Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio has been my go-to weeknight rescue for years. I remember one particularly chaotic evening when I had absolutely nothing planned for dinner, and the thought of ordering takeout felt too much. I looked in my pantry and realized I had all the makings for this simple Italian classic. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled my kitchen, creating an irresistible fragrance that promised a quick, satisfying meal. This easy garlic butter pasta is so incredibly simple, yet the flavor is surprisingly complex and deeply comforting. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

This dish is a true lifesaver for busy nights, and I know you’ll adore it for so many reasons:

It’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for when hunger strikes fast.
The flavor is amazing – simple ingredients create a rich, satisfying taste.
It uses pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime.

This easy garlic butter pasta recipe is practically foolproof.
It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite additions.
The smell of garlic sautéing in butter is pure comfort food magic.

It’s a fantastic base for a simple aglio e olio with butter that feels gourmet.
You’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create such a delicious meal.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

Gather these simple components for a truly delicious garlic butter pasta recipe. I always make sure to have these on hand for a quick and satisfying meal:

14 ounces spaghetti – the classic choice for this dish
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – don’t be shy with the garlic!
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil – using a good quality oil is key for that rich aglio e olio flavor

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – adjust this to your spice preference
Salt, to taste – for seasoning the pasta water and the sauce
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – adds a little bite

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – for a burst of freshness and color
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) – a lovely salty finish if you like

How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

Making this quick garlic butter pasta aglio is a joyful process, and I promise it’s simpler than you think. The aroma alone will make you feel like a seasoned chef!

Step 1: Get a large pot of water boiling for your spaghetti. Don’t forget to generously salt it – this is your first chance to season the pasta!
Step 2: Once boiling, add the 14 ounces spaghetti and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. While that’s happening, grab a large skillet for the sauce.
Step 3: Pour 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil into your skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced. Sauté this gently until it’s fragrant and just beginning to turn golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing the oil with that wonderful garlic flavor, but be careful not to burn it, or it will taste bitter.

Step 4: Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until their spicy aroma fills the air.
Step 5: Just before draining your pasta, carefully scoop out about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid gold is key to creating a silky, emulsified sauce.
Step 6: Drain the spaghetti and immediately add it to the skillet with the garlic-infused oil. Toss everything together thoroughly.

Step 7: Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Keep tossing the pasta; the starch from the water will combine with the olive oil and butter to create a beautiful, light sauce that coats every strand. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency for this butter garlic pasta aglio.
Step 8: Season generously with salt, to taste, and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Taste and adjust as needed.
Step 9: Finally, stir in the 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Its vibrant green color and fresh taste are the perfect finishing touch.

Step 10: Serve your delicious homemade garlic butter pasta aglio immediately. Top with Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional), if you like!

Amazing Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio in 15 min - Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that elevate this simple dish from good to absolutely spectacular. Follow these tips for a truly memorable garlic butter pasta aglio experience:

Always use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It’s one of the main flavors, so good oil makes a big difference in this butter garlic pasta aglio.
Don’t rush the garlic sauté. Gentle cooking until golden is key; burnt garlic will ruin the dish.
Reserve enough pasta water! This starchy liquid is essential for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings to the spaghetti.

Fresh parsley makes a huge difference. Dried parsley just doesn’t give you that bright, fresh pop that complements the rich garlic and butter.

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors and achieving a perfectly emulsified sauce. Gently toasting the garlic without burning and using the starchy pasta water to create a luscious coating are the keys to a truly divine aglio e olio garlic butter sauce.

Can I make Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed immediately, you can prepare components ahead. Cook the pasta and store it separately from the garlic-oil mixture. Reheat them together with a little extra pasta water or olive oil just before serving to achieve the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio?

The biggest mistake is burning the garlic – cook it low and slow until just golden. Another pitfall is not using enough pasta water; it’s crucial for the sauce’s consistency. Lastly, ensure your pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

This versatile garlic butter pasta aglio is a fantastic main course on its own, but it also shines when paired with other dishes. For a complete Italian feast, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. It also makes a wonderful accompaniment to grilled chicken or shrimp, adding a burst of flavor without overpowering the main protein. If you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian meal, consider pairing this butter garlic pasta recipe aglio with some roasted asparagus or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Amazing Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio in 15 min - Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

When I make this garlic butter spaghetti aglio, I always like to know what I’m working with. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional information per serving. It’s a relatively light dish, especially when you consider the flavor it packs!

Calories: 400
Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g

Protein: 10g
Sodium: 250mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

Even though this garlic butter pasta aglio easy recipe is best enjoyed fresh, sometimes life happens and you end up with leftovers. Don’t worry, storing and reheating this dish is simple! First, let the pasta cool completely at room temperature. This is important to prevent condensation in your storage containers, which can make the pasta mushy. Once cooled, transfer your delicious homemade garlic butter pasta aglio into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months, though the texture might change slightly.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of options. The best way to reheat garlic butter spaghetti aglio is on the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This helps revive the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating. Just remember, the goal is to gently warm it up without overcooking the pasta!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio

What is garlic butter pasta aglio?

Garlic butter pasta aglio is a simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian dish. It’s essentially a variation of the classic Aglio e Olio, which means “garlic and oil.” My version adds butter for an extra layer of richness, creating a delightful aglio e olio butter garlic pasta that’s both comforting and quick to make.

Can I add vegetables to my garlic butter pasta aglio?

Absolutely! This garlic butter pasta aglio variations dish is wonderfully adaptable. I often toss in some steamed broccoli florets, sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even some mushrooms towards the end of cooking. These additions not only boost the nutritional value but also add lovely textures and colors to your butter garlic pasta aglio.

How do I make garlic butter pasta aglio spicier?

If you love a kick, you can easily amp up the heat in your garlic butter pasta aglio. The easiest way is to increase the amount of red pepper flakes you add when sautéing the garlic. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the finished dish for an extra spicy punch.

Is garlic butter pasta aglio a healthy meal?

This garlic butter pasta aglio easy recipe can be quite healthy, depending on how you prepare it. It’s naturally low in sugar and can be packed with healthy fats from the olive oil. By adding plenty of vegetables and using whole wheat spaghetti, you can make it an even more nutritious and balanced meal. Remember, moderation is key!

Variations of Garlic Butter Pasta Aglio You Can Try

While the classic garlic butter pasta aglio is divine, don’t be afraid to play around with it! I love experimenting with different additions to make this easy garlic butter pasta my own. Here are a few of my favorite garlic butter pasta aglio variations:

Add Protein: For a heartier meal, toss in some cooked shrimp, pan-seared scallops, or even some shredded rotisserie chicken during the last minute of cooking. This turns your simple pasta into a more substantial dish.
Veggie Boost: Sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a handful of fresh spinach wilted into the sauce add wonderful texture and nutrients. Asparagus tips or blanched broccoli florets are also fantastic additions to this butter garlic pasta aglio.

Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a finely diced jalapeño along with the garlic. A dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end can also do the trick for a fiery garlic butter spaghetti aglio.
Lemon Zest: A little bit of lemon zest stirred in at the end adds a bright, fresh counterpoint to the rich garlic and butter, making this simple aglio e olio with butter even more vibrant.