Name: Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: ¾ teaspoon dried basil; ¾ teaspoon dried oregano; ¾ teaspoon dried parsley; ¾ teaspoon mustard powder; ¼ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 ¾ cups chicken broth; ¾ cup half and half; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; ½ chicken bouillon cube; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ½ lb. Shellbow pasta

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Introduction

Garlic Butter Pasta is a quick and comforting one-pot meal that combines rich butter, fresh garlic, and a blend of herbs with tender pasta. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something simple yet satisfying.

A white bowl filled with shell pasta covered in a creamy, light yellow sauce speckled with small green herb pieces, giving it a lightly textured appearance. On the upper right side inside the bowl, there are two bright yellow lemon wedges placed against the pasta. The pasta shells have a smooth, slightly shiny texture, with the sauce evenly coating each piece. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ teaspoon dried basil
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon dried parsley
¾ teaspoon mustard powder
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon pepper
4 tablespoons butter, divided
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 ¾ cups chicken broth
¾ cup half and half
1 teaspoon soy sauce
½ chicken bouillon cube
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ lb. Shellbow pasta (or similar pasta like cavatappi, medium shells, orecchiette, farfalle, rotini)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine all the dried seasonings and set aside. Measure out the remaining ingredients before starting, as this recipe moves quickly.
Step 2: In a soup pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and the mixed seasonings. Stir continuously until the butter begins to foam.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth, half and half, soy sauce, and add the chicken bouillon cube. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Add the pasta to the boiling liquid. Maintain a gentle boil and cook uncovered following the package instructions. Use a silicone spatula to occasionally lift the pasta from the bottom to prevent sticking.
Step 5: When the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Step 6: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
Step 7: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, cover the pot, and allow it to melt. Gently stir the melted butter into the pasta and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh garlic cloves instead of jarred minced garlic for a brighter, fresher flavor.
Grate Parmesan cheese from a wedge for better melting and richer taste compared to pre-grated cheese.
Freshly squeeze lemon juice to enhance the overall brightness of the dish.
The mustard powder and soy sauce enhance flavor subtly without overpowering the dish.
Try different pasta shapes like cavatappi, farfalle, or rotini if Shellbow pasta isn’t available.
For added protein, stir in cooked chicken for a hearty meal.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, the best method is to warm it gently in a double boiler setup on the stovetop to help restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving directly to preserve the sauce consistency.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with small, shell-shaped pasta covered in a creamy, light beige sauce speckled with green herbs and black pepper. Two bright yellow lemon wedges are placed on the right side of the bowl, adding a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta. The pasta appears soft and coated evenly with the sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with cavatappi, medium shells, orecchiette, farfalle, rotini, or any similar shape. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.

Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, fresher flavor that enhances the dish much better.