Buttered Noodles with Garlic & Herbs

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 2 mins
Total Time 27 mins
Cooking Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Courses: Dinner, Lunch
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

Buttered Noodles with Garlic & Herbs is a comforting, flavorful pasta dish made with tender noodles tossed in rich butter, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, simple lunches, or as a delicious side dish. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish delivers a warm, savory flavor that everyone loves.

Ingredients
    For the Buttered Noodles Base
  • 250 g egg noodles or spaghetti (uncooked)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil (finely chopped)
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp pasta cooking water (optional for extra silkiness)
Instructions
    Boil the Noodles
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 7–10 minutes) until tender but slightly firm (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. 2
    Before draining, reserve about 2 tablespoons of the pasta cooking water. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Base
  4. 3
    Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt slowly until it becomes slightly foamy.
  5. 4
    Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 30–60 seconds. Stir continuously so the garlic becomes fragrant but does not burn.
  6. Season the Butter Sauce
  7. 5
    Add salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using) to the butter mixture. Stir well so the seasonings blend evenly into the garlic butter sauce.
  8. 6
    If you want a slightly creamier texture, add the reserved pasta water and stir gently. The starch from the water helps create a silky sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
  9. Toss the Noodles
  10. 7
    Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Using tongs or a spoon, gently toss the noodles until every strand is coated with the buttery mixture.
  11. 8
    Cook for 1–2 minutes while stirring so the noodles absorb the flavors.
  12. Add Herbs and Final Touches
  13. 9
    Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley and basil over the noodles. Toss lightly so the herbs distribute evenly.
  14. 10
    If desired, add grated parmesan cheese and mix until slightly melted. Let the noodles rest for 2 minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Note

Use Fresh Garlic:
Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor. Garlic powder can be used in emergencies, but fresh garlic gives a stronger aroma.

Choose the Right Noodles:
Egg noodles, spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine all work well for this recipe.

Make it Creamier:
Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.

Add Protein:
You can easily add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables to turn this dish into a complete meal.

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tip:
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or butter to restore the creamy texture.

Keywords: quick, easy, budget-friendly, kid-friendly, comfort food
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/buttered-noodles-with-garlic-herbs/