Creamy Parmesan Noodles with garlic and butter are a quick and simple pasta recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with linguine, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, this easy pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Smooth, cheesy sauce coats every noodle, creating a comforting meal that pairs well with chicken, vegetables, or a fresh salad. Perfect for homemade dinners or a fast pasta lunch, this recipe uses pantry staples and minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

8 ounces dry linguine pasta
2 teaspoons salt, for pasta water
½ cup reserved pasta water, divided (you may not need it all)
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
½ cup 2% milk
⅓ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1–2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine 1 minute less than the package directions suggest. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Set aside.
In the same pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in a small splash of milk until smooth, then slowly add the remaining milk, whisking continuously. Add about 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and stir well. Cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. If your pasta is sticky, rinse briefly under warm water in the colander. Add the pasta to the pot and toss with tongs until evenly coated.
Mix in the parsley and toss again. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Parmesan noodle recipe is creamy, cheesy, and comforting without being heavy. It comes together quickly using simple ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. The fresh parsley adds a hint of freshness, balancing the rich flavor of Parmesan.

Tips

Reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps thin the sauce and makes it cling to the noodles better.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest texture.
Cook the pasta slightly under the package time, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap linguine for spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for an extra rich sauce.
Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best served immediately, but you can make the sauce in advance and gently reheat it with a splash of milk or pasta water.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute to make it safe for gluten-free diets.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter, plant-based milk, and vegan Parmesan cheese.

Serving

Serve these Parmesan noodles as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, or enjoy them as a main course with added protein. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top before serving enhances the flavor.

Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli.
Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.