Garlic basil spaghetti with parmesan and butter

Garlic basil spaghetti with parmesan and butter combines the rich flavors of garlic, fresh basil, creamy butter, and sharp parmesan for a satisfying meal. This easy recipe is ideal for a quick dinner or a relaxed weekend get-together.

15 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

16 oz whole-wheat pasta
1 cup basil leaves
1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 dash black pepper
1 dash salt
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Garlic basil spaghetti with parmesan and butter is a simple yet delightful dish that brings together the robust flavors of garlic, the freshness of basil, the creaminess of butter, and the sharp taste of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is both easy to prepare and satisfyingly delicious.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Basil Garlic Oil:
- While the pasta cooks, finely chop the basil leaves.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the olive oil and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and slightly golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped basil. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the basil garlic oil.
- Toss the pasta to evenly coat it with the fragrant oil mixture.

4. Season and Add Butter:
- Sprinkle the dash of black pepper and salt over the pasta.
- Add the butter to the skillet, and toss the pasta until the butter is melted and the pasta is well-coated.

5. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, tossing the pasta until the cheese is evenly distributed and slightly melted.
- If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the garlic basil spaghetti to serving plates.
- Garnish with a few more basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, aromatic flavors of this simple yet delicious dish.

Garlic basil spaghetti with parmesan and butter is an easy and flavorsome dish that can be prepared in a short amount of time. Whether you're cooking for yourself or serving guests, this recipe offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy your meal with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete dining experience.

Garlic basil spaghetti with parmesan and butter FAQ:

How long should I cook the whole-wheat pasta?

Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute the butter with additional olive oil or use a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.

How do I know when the garlic is done cooking?

Cook the minced garlic in olive oil for about 1 minute until it's fragrant and slightly golden, but be careful not to let it burn.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and store it?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

What if my pasta seems dry after combining with the sauce?

If your pasta appears dry, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

Tips:

- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor. If you can't find fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but reduce the quantity to about 1-2 teaspoons.

- For a creamier texture, use room temperature butter so it melts smoothly into the pasta.

- Grate the parmesan cheese fresh for the best taste, rather than using pre-grated cheese.

- If you like a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil when sautéing the garlic.

- Reserve some pasta water before draining the spaghetti; adding a bit of it can help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.

- Make sure not to overcook the pasta. Aim for al dente texture, which provides a bit of a bite and complements the sauce well.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 160kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 2.25g
Sugar 0.48g
Fat 16g

Garlic basil spaghetti with parmesan and butter