
Garlic bread and pasta are two of the most beloved comfort foods.
But what if you could combine them into one heavenly dish?
Enter Garlic Bread Pasta: a rich, buttery, garlicky pasta dish that tastes just like garlic bread but comes with the creamy satisfaction of pasta.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or an impressive side dish, this recipe is bound to be a hit.
It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor.
Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen smell like a slice of Italian heaven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Garlic Bread Pasta, you’ll need the following:
- Pasta: 12 ounces of spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta variety.
- Garlic: 6 cloves, finely minced (fresh garlic is key here).
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for added richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (freshly grated is best).
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, freshly chopped, for garnish.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Optional Add-ins: Red pepper flakes for a kick, or cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for added protein.
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use gluten-free pasta, vegan butter, or dairy-free cheese for dietary preferences.
How to Make Garlic Bread Pasta
Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Add Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Variations of Garlic Bread Pasta
This dish is easily customizable to suit your taste:
- Spicy Garlic Bread Pasta: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheesy Baked Version: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and plant-based Parmesan.
What to Serve with Garlic Bread Pasta
Pair your Garlic Bread Pasta with these delicious sides and additions:
- Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Click here for more salad recipes
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are great options.
- Protein Pairings: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon add a protein boost.
- Wine Suggestions: Serve with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a perfect pairing.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Bread Pasta
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so keep the heat low and stir constantly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley elevate the flavor.
- Customize the Texture: Add more pasta water if you prefer a lighter sauce or keep it thick for a richer experience.
FAQ’s
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Fresh garlic is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor, but pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Thaw and reheat with additional butter or olive oil for moisture.
Garlic Bread Pasta Recipe (25-Minutes)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces pasta cavatappi, or your favorite pasta variety
- 6 cloves garlic finely minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice
- Cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms (optional protein)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Add Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.