Save This garlic browned butter noodle bowl is pure weeknight comfort in under thirty minutes. Tender noodles are tossed with nutty browned butter and loads of fresh garlic for an easy yet fancy feeling meal you can whip up using what you probably already have in your pantry.
I first tried this on a cozy fall night with my teenager, and he polished off two servings instantly. Whenever I make this, friends always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Pasta: Choose a sturdy fettuccine or wide egg noodle They soak up the sauce best Opt for bronze die cut pasta from Italy if possible
- Salt: Enhances the water and builds flavor right from the start Go for flaky kosher for consistency
- Unsalted butter: The star of the show Browning transforms its flavor to nutty and complex Choose European butter for extra richness
- Garlic: Freshly minced is essential to avoid bitterness Pick firm cloves with smooth skin
- Reserved pasta water: Helps bring everything together with a silky texture Save a small cupful before draining
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is worth it for the best melt and flavor Look for Parmesan Reggiano with a crumbly texture and sweet scent
- Parsley: Choose the flat leaf variety for robust flavor and color Avoid wilted bunches
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked gives a lively bite Use a pepper mill instead of pre ground
- Lemon zest: Optional but brightens the dish Choose unwaxed lemons with fragrant skin
Instructions
- Prep the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and season generously with salt Cook the noodles just until al dente so they have a little bite Reserve one quarter cup of the cooking water and set aside before draining
- Brown the Butter:
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat Let it foam up and swirl or stir occasionally After about four minutes the color turns golden brown and you will smell a toasty nutty aroma Be vigilant to prevent burning as the flavor goes from perfect to acrid very quickly
- Infuse with Garlic:
- Immediately add your finely minced garlic to the browned butter Stir constantly for thirty seconds until the garlic is fragrant and just softened Remove the pan from the heat as soon as this happens so the garlic does not burn
- Combine Noodles and Sauce:
- Add the drained noodles directly to the skillet over low heat Gently toss everything together so each strand is coated with buttery goodness
- Create a Creamy Finish:
- Pour in reserved pasta water Sprinkle in the grated parmesan freshly chopped parsley cracked black pepper and if you like a burst of citrus the lemon zest Toss thoroughly until the cheese melts and a silky glossy sauce clings to the pasta Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Serve:
- Dish up immediately while steaming hot Top each bowl with extra parmesan and a scattering of parsley
Save During family get togethers this dish vanishes in minutes My favorite ingredient is the freshly grated parmesan Sometimes I sneak an extra handful on top just for myself and pass it around the table for everyone to do the same
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool to room temperature before refrigerating Store in a sealed container for up to three days A quick toss with a splash of water and microwave brings back the sauce's creamy texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap fettuccine with spaghetti or thick linguine Try pecorino in place of parmesan for a sharper taste Substitute chives or basil if out of parsley
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a big green salad or roasted broccolini for color Pair it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up extra butter For added protein a poached egg or crispy tofu works perfectly tucked on top
Save Handfuls of fresh herbs make even the simplest noodles feel special A splash of pasta water is like magic for creamy pasta Always taste and tweak salt cheese and pepper at the very end
Kitchen Help
- → What type of noodles can I use for this dish?
Fettuccine, egg noodles, or any long pasta work well. Choose your favorite or what's on hand.
- → How do I achieve perfectly browned butter?
Melt butter over medium heat, watching as it foams and turns golden with a nutty aroma. Avoid burning by swirling the pan.
- → Can I add extra ingredients for flavor or nutrition?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, roasted vegetables, or a fried egg make delicious additions and boost protein.
- → What herbs pair best with this bowl?
Fresh parsley works beautifully; you can also add chives or basil for extra freshness.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian. Check pasta ingredients to avoid eggs if needed for dietary restrictions.
- → What is the best cheese to use?
Parmesan is recommended for its flavor and melting quality, but pecorino can be substituted if desired.