Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
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When you’re craving something comfortingly rich yet fresh and herbaceous, this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines the irresistible creaminess of buttery pasta infused with a fragrant blend of herbs, alongside the sharp, melty goodness of freshly grated Parmesan. Every bite feels like a warm, satisfying hug that’s elevated by a gentle touch of lemon brightness and those subtle layers of flavor from garlic and spices. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, this pasta dish is pure magic on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about the ingredients in this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe is their simplicity paired with the way they each add a vital element to the final dish—from aroma to creaminess and that perfect umami kick.
- Dried basil (3/4 teaspoon): Adds a sweet, peppery aroma that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Dried oregano (3/4 teaspoon): Brings a slightly minty, warm edge to the herb mix.
- Dried parsley (3/4 teaspoon): Offers fresh, mild herbal notes and vibrant green flecks throughout the pasta.
- Mustard powder (3/4 teaspoon): Gives an understated tangy warmth that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Dried thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Introduces subtle earthiness and slight floral tones.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the savory base without overpowering the garlic.
- Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and balances the creamy richness.
- Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): The cornerstone of the sauce, providing luscious silkiness.
- Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses pungent, aromatic depth that defines the dish.
- Chicken broth (2 3/4 cups): The flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the pasta tender and savory.
- Half and half (3/4 cup): Delivers creamy texture without heaviness.
- Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds umami richness and subtle saltiness.
- Chicken bouillon cube (1/2): Intensifies the savoriness in the broth base.
- Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup, freshly grated): Melts perfectly for a nutty, cheesy finish.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens and lifts the entire dish with its zesty tang.
- Shellbow pasta (1/2 lb): Holds the sauce well with its shape, but any short pasta works great.
How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Measure Ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, gather and measure all your ingredients. Mixing your dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl ensures the herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dish. Having everything prepped means the cooking process will flow seamlessly.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Herbs
In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. As soon as it starts to foam, add minced garlic along with your seasoning blend. Stir constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn but instead releases its fragrant oils. This step unlocks all those beautiful herb and garlic flavors that will carry through the pasta.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, so the flavors meld and the liquids begin to concentrate, setting the stage for perfectly cooked pasta.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
Once the liquid is boiling, add your shellbow pasta directly to the pot. Keep the heat at a gentle boil and cook uncovered according to the package directions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir gently and frequently with a silicone spatula, scraping the bottom to prevent sticking. Taste for al dente texture—the pasta should be tender yet still slightly firm in the center.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This creates that classic velvety coating that makes this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe feel so indulgent. Take the pot off the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice to add an invigorating burst of brightness.
Step 6: Add Final Touches and Serve
Drop the last tablespoon of butter on top of the pasta, cover the pot for a minute to let it melt, then stir gently to incorporate it fully. This finishing touch adds extra richness and gloss to your dish. Serve it hot, and if you like, garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs to impress guests or sweeten your own dinner moment.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
To make this pasta shine even more, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and fresh aroma. A light dusting of additional Parmesan improves both taste and visual appeal, making each bite even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce. Light, fresh sides balance the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinners or gatherings, consider serving this pasta in shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze over. Alternatively, twirl portions into neat nests on warm plates, topped with herb sprigs for a pretty, restaurant-quality finish that dazzles without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to maintain the flavors and creamy texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that the pasta might lose some firmness and the sauce can separate slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month, and be sure to thaw thoroughly before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to heat evenly and bring back that fresh, delicious flavor that makes this recipe so addicting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shellbow pasta is perfect for holding the sauce, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle will work beautifully in this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth and bouillon with vegetable broth and vegetarian bouillon. The herbs and Parmesan will keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free twist, swap butter for olive oil or a vegan butter, and use a dairy-free cream alternative instead of half and half. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and herbs for a gentle heat that balances well with the creamy sauce.
What’s the best way to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick while cooking in the sauce?
Stir regularly with a silicone spatula and monitor the heat to keep it at a gentle boil. This helps keep the pasta suspended and evenly coated without sticking to the pot.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one recipe you keep on rotation, let it be this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and perfectly comforting without feeling heavy. Whipping this up will quickly become your go-to when you want something that tastes indulgent but comes together in no time. Grab your butter and garlic, and let’s make a pasta dish you’ll want to savor again and again.
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Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy and flavorful garlic butter pasta recipe that combines fragrant herbs, rich butter, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting and easy-to-make meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
Herbs and Seasonings
- 3/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 3/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Base and Pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 lb. shellbow pasta (or substitute with any short pasta of choice)
Instructions
- Prep and Measure Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients including herbs, butter, garlic, liquids, and pasta before starting the cooking process, as it moves quickly.
- Combine Seasonings: Mix the dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Herbs: In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the prepared seasoning blend. Stir continuously until fragrant and the butter begins to foam, allowing the herbs and garlic to release their flavors.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the chicken bouillon cube. Stir well and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Once boiling, add the shellbow pasta to the pot. Maintain a gentle boil and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally with a silicone spatula to prevent sticking.
- Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely forming a creamy sauce. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Add Final Touches and Serve: Place the remaining tablespoon of butter on top of the pasta, cover the pot briefly to allow it to melt, then gently stir it into the pasta. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Use any short pasta like penne or rotini if shellbow is unavailable.
- Adjust the seasoning blend to taste, optionally adding red pepper flakes for heat.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth and bouillon with vegetable broth and vegetarian bouillon.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold texture in the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
