Buttery Parmesan Garlic Noodles

These Buttery Parmesan Garlic Noodles are tossed with melted butter, fresh garlic, and plenty of Parmesan cheese for a simple, flavorful stovetop side dish. Ready in minutes, they’re rich, buttery, and perfect alongside chicken, steak, pork chops, or all on their own.

Cook Time

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Prep Time

5 Minutes

Ingredients

How to Make Parmesan Garlic Butter Noodles

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until tender. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain the noodles and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter
Return the pot to the stove over low heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not brown the garlic.

Add the Noodles
Return the drained spaghetti to the pot and toss well until the noodles are completely coated in the garlic butter.

Add the Parmesan
Remove the pot from the heat. Add the Parmesan, salt, and black pepper and toss until evenly combined. Add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time only if needed until the noodles are glossy and the Parmesan coats them smoothly.

Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with the finely chopped parsley and a little additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Add the Parmesan after removing the pot from the heat. This helps it melt smoothly into the buttery noodles instead of clumping. If the noodles seem a little dry, toss in a tablespoon of reserved pasta water until they’re glossy and perfectly coated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes. Spaghetti works great, but linguine, fettuccine, angel hair, or other pasta shapes can be used. Just cook the pasta according to the package directions.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

You can, but freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and gives the noodles a better texture and flavor.
How do I keep Parmesan garlic butter noodles from getting dry?

Save some of the pasta water before draining. If the noodles begin to look dry, toss in a tablespoon at a time until they’re glossy and nicely coated again.
What can I serve with Parmesan garlic butter noodles?

These noodles make an easy side dish for chicken, steak, pork chops, seafood, or roasted vegetables. They’re also delicious on their own for a quick meal.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a small pat of butter or splash of water to loosen the noodles and bring back that buttery texture.

□ 8 oz spaghetti noodles
□ ¾ cup (1½ sticks) butter
□ ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
□ 1¼ tablespoons minced garlic
□ ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
□ ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
□ 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
□ Pasta water, reserved as needed

10 Minutes