Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a quick yet irresistibly tasty dinner, this Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs is your new weeknight hero. The silky, garlicky butter sauce coats every twirl of pasta, while the golden, toasty breadcrumbs add a delectable crunch you’ll crave bite after bite. It’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners, last-minute gatherings, or when you want a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Rich, buttery flavor balanced by garlicky goodness and zesty parsley.
- Crispy breadcrumbs add an irresistible crunch to every forkful.
- Uses pantry staples and comes together in one pan—minimal cleanup!
- Incredibly versatile and perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
- ½ cup (1 stick or 115g) unsalted butter
- 5 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (preferably from day-old bread)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Directions: How to Make Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Step 1: Toast the Crispy Breadcrumbs
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and half the butter (¼ cup).
- Add the fresh breadcrumbs and stir frequently, cooking for 4-5 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove the toasted breadcrumbs to a bowl, then mix in half the chopped parsley and the lemon zest. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve ¾ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Do not rinse.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Return the skillet to medium-low heat. Add the remaining ¼ cup butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let the garlic brown.
- Optional: Stir in the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat in the garlic butter.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed, tossing until the sauce lightly clings to the noodles (about ¼–½ cup).
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Finish and Serve Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and generously sprinkle with the crispy breadcrumbs.
- Garnish with remaining parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately!
Notes for Making Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- For the best breadcrumbs, use day-old bread and pulse it in a food processor for a rustic texture. Learn more about homemade breadcrumbs here.
- Don’t overcook the garlic—just a gentle sizzle brings out its flavor without bitterness.
- If you love extra crunch, double the breadcrumb topping!
Variations for Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta: Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
- Garlic Butter Pasta with Anchovies: Melt 2 anchovy fillets in the butter for savory umami depth.
- Vegetable Version: Toss in sautéed spinach or blistered cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Strainer
- Wooden spoon or tongs
- Microplane or zester
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the breadcrumbs separate and sprinkle just before serving to maintain their crunch. Reheat pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of water or butter.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Pair with a simple green salad and a glass of chilled white wine.
- Serve as a hearty main or divide into small bowls for a delicious appetizer.
- Roasted vegetables or grilled chicken make excellent additions on the side.
- Check out these ideas for pasta pairings.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- Use high-quality butter for a richer, silkier sauce (read about butter types).
- Toss the pasta continuously with the sauce for even coating and creamy texture.
- Make the breadcrumbs just before serving for maximum crunch and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions – Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Breadcrumbs
- Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
- Yes, but fresh breadcrumbs yield better flavor and texture. If using store-bought, choose panko for extra crunch.
- Is this recipe vegetarian?
- Yes! Just be sure to use vegetarian Parmesan or omit the cheese if desired.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a delicious alternative.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
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2While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
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3In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
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4Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
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5Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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6Divide the pasta among plates and sprinkle generously with the crispy breadcrumbs. Serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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