Sometimes, all you need after a long day is a meal that's quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Enter 10-Minute Garlic Parmesan Noodles! This dish is the definition of effortless comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Creamy, garlicky, and finished with a generous sprinkle of parmesan, this is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a dinner (or lunch!) that feels fancy but requires very little effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even hosting last-minute guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a plate of creamy, garlicky goodness:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you’re a garlic lover!)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the noodles)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional) for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional) for a kick of heat
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to have dinner ready in no time:
Cook your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture. Before draining, scoop out about 1/4 cup of pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the garlic and butter sauce. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden (be careful not to burn it!).
Combine the ingredients. Turn the heat to low and stir the butter into the skillet until melted. Add the drained pasta and toss well to coat. Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water and toss again to create a silky sauce.
Add the Parmesan. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pasta, stirring until it melts into the sauce. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve your noodles. Plate the dish, and if you like, top it with fresh parsley, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added spice.
And that’s it! Your Garlic Parmesan Noodles are ready to enjoy.
Customization Ideas
What’s great about this dish is how versatile it is. You can easily tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Add protein. Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Boost the veggies. Stir in baby spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted cherry tomatoes for some added greens and texture.
- Go extra creamy. Mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for an even creamier sauce.
- Make it zesty. Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the noodles before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can make it complete with a few extras. Pair your Garlic Parmesan Noodles with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine for the perfect dinner experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It’s fast. 10 minutes from start to finish!
- It’s easy. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are common pantry staples.
- It’s delicious. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan is a classic for a reason.
Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or resorting to takeout. With this 10-Minute Garlic Parmesan Noodles recipe in your back pocket, you’ll always have a go-to meal that feels indulgent without the hassle. Give it a try tonight, and we’re confident you’ll be hooked!
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