Garlic Browned Butter Noodles

Featured in: Quick & Easy Meals

Enjoy silky noodles coated in nutty browned butter, fragrant garlic, and melted parmesan, all brought together with fresh parsley and optional lemon zest. This comforting dish comes together quickly and features classic European flavors. Easily adaptable with sautéed vegetables or a protein boost from eggs. Perfect for a fast weeknight meal or inviting vegetarian centerpiece, served warm with extra parmesan and a splash of crisp white wine on the side.

Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:26:00 GMT
Garlic Browned Butter Noodle Bowls filled with creamy pasta topped with fresh herbs and cheese.  Save to Pinterest
Garlic Browned Butter Noodle Bowls filled with creamy pasta topped with fresh herbs and cheese. | krispyrecipes.com

Tender noodles tossed in rich browned butter, infused with garlic, and finished with fresh herbs and parmesan for an irresistibly savory and comforting meal.

I made these noodle bowls after craving something cozy but simple on a busy weeknight. The aroma of garlic sizzling in browned butter is pure comfort, and my family devours every last bite.

Ingredients

  • Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or egg noodles, salt for boiling water
  • Browned Butter: 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, 4 garlic cloves finely minced
  • Finishings: 1/4 cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water, 1/3 cup (30 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese plus extra for serving, 2 tbsp (8 g) chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

Cook noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pasta water then drain the noodles.
Brown the butter:
While the pasta cooks melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook swirling occasionally until the butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma about 4–5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Add garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant then immediately remove the pan from heat.
Combine noodles and butter:
Add the drained noodles to the skillet with browned butter. Toss well to coat.
Add finishings:
Add reserved pasta water parmesan parsley black pepper and lemon zest (if using). Toss until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve:
Serve immediately topped with extra parmesan and fresh parsley.
Savory Garlic Browned Butter Noodle Bowls drizzled with golden brown butter and parmesan.  Save to Pinterest
Savory Garlic Browned Butter Noodle Bowls drizzled with golden brown butter and parmesan. | krispyrecipes.com

We enjoy sharing these noodles during family movie nights. Everyone personalizes their bowl with extra herbs or cheese for a fun hands-on dinner.

Required Tools

Large pot large skillet colander wooden spoon or tongs microplane or zester (optional)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 420, Total Fat: 20 g, Carbohydrates: 47 g, Protein: 13 g

Serving Suggestions

Try pairing these noodle bowls with sautéed mushrooms roasted vegetables or a fried egg on top for extra heartiness.

Delicious Garlic Browned Butter Noodle Bowls featuring tender noodles and fragrant garlic aroma. Save to Pinterest
Delicious Garlic Browned Butter Noodle Bowls featuring tender noodles and fragrant garlic aroma. | krispyrecipes.com

Browned butter and garlic instantly boost simple noodles into craveworthy comfort. These bowls make every dinner feel special.

Common Recipe Questions

How do I brown butter without burning it?

Melt butter over medium heat, swirling gently until it turns golden and smells nutty. Remove from heat immediately.

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Yes, fettuccine or egg noodles work well, but feel free to use spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta you prefer.

How can I make this dish heartier?

Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables, or top with a poached or fried egg for protein.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, using vegetarian-friendly parmesan and egg-free noodles ensures this dish stays vegetarian.

What can I serve with the noodle bowls?

Pair with crisp salads or a glass of Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, savory flavors of the noodles.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed immediately, but you can prep ingredients in advance to speed up cooking.

Garlic Browned Butter Noodles

Tender noodles tossed in garlic browned butter and fresh herbs for a savory, easy vegetarian main.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Created by Mia Harper

Recipe Type Quick & Easy Meals

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type European

Total Portions 4 Serving Size

Dietary Considerations Veggie-Friendly

What You’ll Need

Pasta

01 12 ounces fettuccine or wide egg noodles
02 Salt for boiling water

Browned Butter

01 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 4 garlic cloves, finely minced

Finishings

01 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
02 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
03 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
04 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

How to Make It

Step 01

Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain well.

Step 02

Brown the Butter: While the noodles cook, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Swirl occasionally until butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma, about 4 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 03

Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately remove skillet from heat to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 04

Combine Noodles and Butter: Add drained noodles to the skillet with browned butter. Toss thoroughly to coat the noodles.

Step 05

Finish and Serve: Mix in reserved pasta water, parmesan cheese, parsley, black pepper, and lemon zest if desired. Toss until cheese is melted and ingredients are fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh parsley.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon or tongs
  • Microplane or zester (optional)

Possible Allergens

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and consult an expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter, parmesan). If using egg noodles, be aware of possible egg allergens. Always verify ingredient labels.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This data is for informational purposes and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 420
  • Total Fat: 20 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 47 grams
  • Protein Content: 13 grams