“`html
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the richness of melted butter with the vibrant freshness of herbs and the sharp, savory punch of freshly grated Parmesan, all enveloping tender pasta in a creamy, dreamy sauce. Simple yet indulgent, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a spectacular dinner that feels both fancy and homey at once. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a small gathering, this dish never fails to impress with its luscious texture and irresistible aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe comes from a handful of humble ingredients, each playing a key role in creating layers of flavor, rich creaminess, and a comforting texture. From the fresh garlic that gives it a fragrant kick to the Parmesan cheese that melts into luscious silkiness, every component matters.
- Dried basil, oregano, parsley, thyme: These classic Italian herbs add earthy and slightly sweet notes, building a herbaceous backbone for the dish.
- Mustard powder: A subtle tangy warmth that enhances the overall flavor complexity without overpowering the pasta.
- Onion powder and pepper: Provide savory depth and a gentle hint of heat, balancing the buttery richness perfectly.
- Butter (4 tablespoons total): Divided use ensures a silky base for sautéing and a glossy finish, making every bite luxurious.
- Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced): Delivers a fragrant punch that’s the star aroma and taste infusing the entire dish.
- Chicken broth (2 3/4 cups): Adds savory umami and moisture, cooking the pasta right in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
- Half and half (3/4 cup): Creates a creamy texture that’s rich but light enough to let the herbs and cheese shine.
- Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): A secret umami booster that deepens the flavor without salty overkill.
- Chicken bouillon cube (1/2 cube): Concentrates the broth’s savoriness, rounding out the base of this sauce.
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (3/4 cup): Melted in at the end, it binds the sauce to the pasta with its nutty and tangy character.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Introduces brightness and a refreshing contrast to the butter and cheese.
- Shellbow pasta, ½ lb: Or any short pasta you love; its shape helps hold that luscious sauce in every nook.
How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Measure Ingredients
Before turning on the stove, gather all your ingredients and measure carefully — this recipe moves quickly once you start, so having everything ready keeps the process smooth and stress-free. Mix the dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper together in a small bowl and set it aside for easy access.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Herbs
Begin by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and the combined herbs and spices. Stir continuously as the butter foams and the fragrant aromas fill your kitchen — this step releases the full flavor of the herbs and garlic, forming a rich, aromatic base that will infuse every bite of pasta.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and crumble in half a chicken bouillon cube. Stir everything together and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This flavorful liquid will cook the pasta, allowing it to soak up all these delicious tastes as it softens.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
Once bubbling, add the shellbow pasta directly into the pot. Let it cook uncovered at a gentle boil, stirring occasionally with a silicone spatula to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Check the pasta toward the end of the package time — ideally it’s al dente, tender yet with a slight bite that holds up well against the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully, thickening the liquid into a velvety, creamy sauce that clings to each pasta piece. Remove the pot from heat and pour in fresh lemon juice, which instantly brightens the richness and adds a lovely zing.
Step 6: Add Final Touches and Serve
Drop the remaining tablespoon of butter on top of the hot pasta, cover the pot briefly so it melts into silky perfection, then gently mix everything together. This final addition of butter enriches the dish’s texture and shine. Serve immediately, with an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for an inviting presentation.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra effort with garnishes can elevate your dish to impressive heights. Freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves add a pop of green and a fresh herbal note. A light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese on top provides an irresistible finishing touch that beckons you to dig in. For a bit of heat, thinly sliced chili flakes also complement the buttery herb base wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, vibrant side salads featuring lemon vinaigrette to mirror the brightness in the pasta. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, seasoned simply with olive oil and salt, add excellent texture contrast. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp reflects the savory depth of the dish without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the pasta directly in a warm, shallow bowl with a sprig of fresh herb elegantly placed on top. If you’re hosting guests, individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets not only look charming but help keep the pasta warm longer. Drizzle a little extra melted butter around the edges of the bowl for that luscious, glossy appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because this dish is creamy, the pasta may absorb some sauce over time, so you might want to loosen it up gently with a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Freezing
This Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to prevent separation of the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to ensure even warming without curdling or drying out the pasta. You can also use the microwave, covered loosely, stirring halfway through for best results.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shellbow pasta is recommended because it holds the sauce beautifully, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe includes chicken broth and bouillon, so it’s not vegetarian as written. However, substituting vegetable broth and a vegetarian bouillon cube will maintain the flavor while keeping it plant-based.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free alternative, swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute, and use a dairy-free cream or coconut milk instead of half and half. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking while cooking?
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking, especially the first few minutes when sticking is most likely. Cooking pasta directly in the sauce liquid also helps it absorb flavor and reduces the chances of sticking.
What makes this Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe special?
It’s the combination of cooking pasta right in a richly seasoned broth with fresh garlic, herbs, butter, and Parmesan that creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to each piece. The finishing touch of fresh lemon juice adds brightness that lifts the entire dish, making it unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a beloved staple, thanks to its simplicity, depth of flavor, and comforting creaminess. It’s a perfect go-to when you want something special without complicated steps or exotic ingredients. I encourage you to have fun with it—try different herbs, pasta shapes, or sides—and make it yours. Once you taste this delightful blend, I’m sure it will become a favorite you’ll return to time and again.
“`
Print
Garlic Butter Pasta with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy Garlic Butter Pasta combines aromatic herbs, rich Parmesan cheese, and a luscious butter sauce for an easy and comforting meal. Using a simple stovetop method, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that serves six, featuring tender shellbow pasta simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with fresh lemon juice for a bright, savory touch.
Ingredients
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
Butter and Garlic
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Liquids and Broth
- 2 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
Cheese and Citrus
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Pasta
- 1/2 lb. shellbow pasta (or substitute with any short pasta of choice)
Instructions
- Prep and Measure Ingredients: Gather all the seasonings and measure out all recipe components before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Combine Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix dried basil, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, thyme, onion powder, and pepper and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Herbs: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and prepared seasonings, stirring continuously until fragrant and the butter begins to foam, releasing all the herb and garlic flavors.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the half chicken bouillon cube. Stir everything together and increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Once the liquid is boiling, add the shellbow pasta. Keep the pot at a gentle boil, cooking uncovered about 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions. Stir occasionally with a silicone spatula to prevent sticking and check the texture to ensure the pasta is al dente.
- Finish the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts fully into a creamy sauce. Remove from heat and mix in fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor contrast.
- Add Final Touches and Serve: Place the remaining 1 tablespoon butter on top of the pasta, cover briefly to melt it, then gently stir the butter through the pasta. Serve hot with optional extra Parmesan or fresh herbs as garnish.
Notes
- Using fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan significantly enhances flavor.
- Stir pasta frequently to avoid sticking and uneven cooking.
- Adjust herbs and lemon juice to taste based on preferred flavor intensity.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Shellbow pasta can be substituted with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or macaroni.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth and bouillon with vegetable broth and bouillon.
