Garlic Bread Pasta

Sharing is caring!

Garlic Bread Pasta

There are days when dinner feels like a daunting task, and you just want something comforting, quick, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. That’s exactly how this Garlic Bread Pasta came to life in our home. I was inspired one evening when I had a leftover loaf of garlic bread and a box of pasta sitting in the pantry. I thought, why not merge the two flavors my family already loves so much? The result was nothing short of magical.

What I adore most about this recipe is its simplicity paired with that irresistible buttery, garlicky flavor that screams comfort food. The pasta gets perfectly coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, then tossed with plenty of Parmesan and a touch of seasoning that makes each bite feel like you’re indulging in your favorite side dish—but heartier.

When I served this the first time, my husband couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted like garlic bread in pasta form, and my kids went back for seconds (and thirds!). It’s quickly become my go-to when I need a meal that’s both satisfying and fuss-free. Whether we’re having a cozy family night or hosting friends for an impromptu dinner, this dish never fails to impress. It’s one of those recipes that just feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, and honestly, I find myself craving it more often than I’d like to admit!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use any type of pasta? Yes! While I love using cavatappi or rotini because the spirals catch the sauce so well, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works beautifully.

Is fresh garlic necessary? Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re really short on time, you can use garlic powder—just adjust to taste.

Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prep the garlic butter sauce and cook the pasta ahead. When ready to serve, just toss everything together and reheat gently.

What protein pairs well with this? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon make fantastic additions to turn it into a more complete meal.

Is this freezer-friendly? I don’t recommend freezing this pasta as the butter sauce can separate upon reheating, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What You Need to Make Garlic Bread Pasta

12 oz cavatappi (or pasta of choice)

5 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra garlic bread crunch)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for toasting breadcrumbs)

Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish

Special Equipment:

Large pot for boiling pasta

Skillet for preparing the garlic butter sauce and breadcrumbs

Fine grater for Parmesan (optional but recommended)

How to Make Garlic Bread Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

Toast the Breadcrumbs (Optional): In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown, stirring frequently. Set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

Season: Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for another minute to infuse flavors.

Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Add Cheese and Garnish: Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and toasted breadcrumbs for that classic garlic bread crunch.

Serve: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan and parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Garlic Bread Pasta

Don’t skip the pasta water: It helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.

Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.

Toast your breadcrumbs: It adds a wonderful crunch and enhances that garlic bread feel.

Control the garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic based on your family’s preference. We love it extra garlicky!

Double the batch: This pasta is always a hit at gatherings—consider doubling if you have a crowd.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This recipe was a lifesaver on a busy weeknight! So simple and my kids devoured it. Definitely going into our meal rotation.” — Amanda J.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved the flavor and texture. Next time, I might add some grilled chicken to make it a full meal.” — Michael S.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I’m obsessed with garlic bread, and this pasta version is absolutely genius. Perfect comfort food!” — Rachel K.

⭐⭐⭐ “Good, but I found it a bit too garlicky for my taste. Will reduce the garlic next time. Still very easy to make!” — Denise W.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Super quick, easy, and tastes just like my favorite garlic bread but better! The toasted breadcrumbs are a must!” — Laura M.

Printable Recipe

Before you print the recipe, could I ask you a favor? Please consider sharing this recipe on Facebook or pin to a group on Pinterest? This would really help us out. Thank you so much <3

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook

Rhubarb Meringue Pie

Tangy Lemon Tartlets

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Sharing is caring!