There’s something truly comforting about the simmering sounds of pasta cooking on a weekday evening. As the bucatini noodles soften in bubbling water, the kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of garlic and butter, creating a warm embrace that promises a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. This Garlic Butter Bucatini recipe has become my go-to for those moments when I crave something rich yet simple, allowing me to reclaim my evenings from the clutches of takeout.
Picture this: creamy garlic-infused sauce clinging lovingly to each strand of pasta, enhanced by hints of shallots and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for both busy nights and special gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser that delivers bold flavors without the fuss. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this deliciously creamy and satisfying Garlic Butter Bucatini!
Why Love Garlic Butter Bucatini?
Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich and velvety sauce brings comfort to your dining table without overwhelming your senses.
Flavorful Garlic Notes: With garlic and shallots starring in the show, each bite bursts with savory goodness.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with extra veggies or proteins; this dish easily adapts to your cravings!
Impressive Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a guaranteed way to wow guests with minimal effort.
For more quick dinner ideas, check out our easy weeknight dinner collection.
Garlic Butter Bucatini Ingredients
• All you need to create this creamy delight!
For the Pasta
- Bucatini pasta – A thicker pasta with a central hole, perfect for capturing more sauce.
For the Sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and depth to every bite.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup) – Creates a luxurious creamy base for the sauce.
- Shallot (1 medium, diced) – Infuses a sweet, mild onion flavor that complements garlic.
- Garlic (2 tablespoons, minced) – Essential for the sauce’s savory and aromatic character.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of subtle heat to the creamy sauce.
- Chicken broth (1 cup) – Boosts flavor and helps create a rich sauce.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup) – Contributes to the dish’s creamy texture.
- Freshly grated parmesan (1 cup) – Key for creaminess and flavor; freshly grated offers the best results!
- Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped for garnish) – Adds freshness and color to your presentation.
- Red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Enjoy whipping up this comforting Garlic Butter Bucatini that brings warmth and joy to your dining experience!
How to Make Garlic Butter Bucatini
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Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bucatini pasta for about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente, tender yet firm to the bite; then drain and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter together. Add the diced shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened, then mix in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Create the Sauce: Season the mixture with kosher salt and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy whipping cream, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and add the freshly grated parmesan. Stir until it’s melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked bucatini into the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is well coated. Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Optional: Add a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Bucatini
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Choose Bucatini Wisely: Use high-quality bucatini for best results; its unique shape clings to the sauce beautifully, enhancing every bite.
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Mind the Salt: Be cautious with salt when cooking the pasta and adapting the sauce; as you add broth and cheese, the salt level can spike.
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Fresh Parmesan Only: Always opt for freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded; the latter can cause a grainy texture in your creamy sauce.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency: Reserve some pasta water! If your sauce is too thick after mixing with bucatini, add a splash to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
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Personalize It: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! Adding vegetables or proteins can elevate your Garlic Butter Bucatini, making it truly your own.
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Serve Promptly: For the best taste, serve the dish immediately. The creaminess and flavors are at their peak right after cooking!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Bucatini?
Creating the perfect meal experience starts with finding those delightful accompaniments that elevate your Garlic Butter Bucatini to new heights.
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Garlic Bread: The classic pairing offers a wonderful crunch and butteriness that complements the creamy pasta beautifully. It’s perfect for soaking up every drop of the luscious sauce.
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Simple Side Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a bright contrast, balancing the richness of the bucatini nicely.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers on the side for a colorful array of flavors and textures. Their earthy sweetness mingles perfectly with the garlic notes.
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Grilled Chicken: For those who crave a protein boost, tender grilled chicken strips make an excellent addition. They enhance the meal while adding a hearty element to each bite.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of chilled sparkling wine or prosecco elevates your dining experience. The bubbles cleanse the palate, making each mouthful of garlic butter goodness even more pleasurable.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse. Its richness will satisfy your sweet tooth, rounding out the meal without overshadowing the bucatini.
Pair these suggestions with your Garlic Butter Bucatini and watch your dining experience transform into a cozy yet sumptuous feast!
Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Bucatini
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Room Temperature: This creamy pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Bucatini in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to preserve its creamy texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To restore the dish’s richness, reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the sauce’s velvety consistency.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Bucatini are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy nights! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance by sautéing the shallots and garlic, then mixing in the chicken broth and cream. Simply allow the sauce to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The bucatini can also be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, just remember to toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce and add the cooked bucatini, finishing with the freshly grated parmesan and garnishing with parsley for a dish that’s just as delicious as when first made!
Garlic Butter Bucatini Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists and swaps!
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Spaghetti Swap: Replace bucatini with spaghetti if it’s unavailable, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. The sauce will still cling wonderfully, creating a comforting pasta experience.
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor. Their earthy tones complement the garlic beautifully.
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Half-and-Half Substitute: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce that still maintains creaminess. It subtly reduces calories without sacrificing richness.
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Protein Power: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for an added protein boost. Each option elevates the dish into a heartier meal, perfect for satisfying larger appetites.
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Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, like fontina or ricotta, alongside parmesan for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own character, enriching the overall flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or thyme can enhance the dish further with aromatic notes. Stir in these herbs right at the end to preserve their vibrant flavors.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce. It brings a zesty flair that dances on the palate.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright contrast to the creamy sauce. It’s a refreshing complement that brightens each bite.
Garlic Butter Bucatini Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect bucatini?
Absolutely! When selecting bucatini, look for high-quality brands that have a smooth texture and even thickness. This pasta type should hold its shape well during cooking and should feel sturdy when you bite into it. If you can’t find bucatini, spaghetti can be a quick substitute, just adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
How long can I store leftover Garlic Butter Bucatini?
You can store leftover Garlic Butter Bucatini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. When ready to eat, gently reheat it in a skillet with a splash of milk or chicken broth, which helps restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Bucatini?
Yes, indeed! To freeze Garlic Butter Bucatini, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, add a bit of milk or broth to help revive the creaminess!
How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Very good question! If you find the sauce is too thick after mixing it with the bucatini, you can help adjust the consistency. Just reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining it, and add a splash at a time to the sauce while tossing the pasta until you reach your desired creaminess. This method keeps the flavors intact and enhances the sauce beautifully.
Is Garlic Butter Bucatini suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, Garlic Butter Bucatini can be catered to various dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta varieties. If you have dairy allergies, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and opt for a dairy-free cheese when needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens, and feel free to enhance the recipe with veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients!
Garlic Butter Bucatini: A Cozy 30-Minute Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook bucatini pasta for about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- In a large skillet, melt olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Pour in chicken broth and cream, bringing to a simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan until melted.
- Toss cooked bucatini into the sauce, garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.