Garlic Butter Sauce: the best sauce recipe for pasta

This creamy and rich butter-based sauce is so versatile, it can be used with just about any savory entree. Although commonly used to season pasta, it’s simple but flavorful enough to use with a variety of proteins like chicken, lobster, and other seafood. Butter, garlic, and herbs like oregano pair together extremely well, especially with a fresh handful of grated parmesan to top. By using just a few ingredients, it's easy to make and easily complements just about anything.

Either salted or unsalted butter can be used in this recipe. When using unsalted, the amount of salt can easily be adjusted to preference. Same goes with the amount of garlic used: Some people prefer much less or a little more. By using dried herbs, the sauce will easily combine with pasta noodles without needing large amounts. These flavors are perfect on a simple palate like pasta with freshly grated parmesan on top. To ensure a fresh, strong taste and easy melt, make sure to grate parmesan new from the block.

How to make homemade Garlic Butter Sauce

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

Saute garlic in hot butter until just cooked.  Cook the garlic slowly and at a low heat, stirring often to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Stir in dried oregano and basil or other herbs until well combined.

Serve immediately on pasta or protein dishes.

Recipes with Garlic butter sauce

This garlic butter sauce can be used as an easy topping to pasta. Think angel hair or risotto for a small noodle that will allow the taste of the garlic butter sauce to stand out— Try adding steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the pasta for extra texture and nutrition. It pairs well when cooked alongside shrimp or drizzled over cooked chicken. It can even be used as a pizza sauce under grated mozzarella and toppings or as a dipping sauce alongside fresh baked breads.

Instructions

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.

When hot, add garlic and saute slowly. It will bubble and foam as the garlic begins to cook. Cook on a low heat and stir constantly to ensure garlic does not brown and burn.

Stir in dried oregano and dried basil until heated through and well combined.

Serve warm.