Easy Lemon Butter Linguine

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I’ve always had a soft spot for recipes that feel luxurious without needing much effort—and this Easy Lemon Butter Linguine checks all the right boxes. It’s creamy, zesty, and beautifully comforting, yet comes together in under 20 minutes. Whether I’m cooking for myself after a long day or hosting a last-minute dinner, this dish is one of my go-to favorites. The way the lemon cuts through the butter and cheese is simply magic.

This pasta is my answer to those days when I want something that feels special but doesn’t demand a pantry full of ingredients or a pile of dishes afterward. It’s light enough for spring and summer meals, but rich enough to satisfy in colder months too. I’ve tweaked it over time, perfecting the balance of brightness and richness—and now I’m excited to share it with you.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Lemon Butter Linguine

This dish brings together the freshness of lemon and the indulgence of butter and Parmesan in a way that feels elegant yet incredibly easy. It’s a 5-ingredient wonder that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. You’ll love how the sauce clings to the pasta, how the pepper gives it a subtle kick, and how you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Lemon Butter Sauce?

While I’m using linguine in this recipe, spaghetti or fettuccine would work just as well. The key is to use a long pasta that allows the glossy, lemony sauce to coat every strand. Avoid short pastas—they don’t hold the sauce quite the same way.

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Options for Substitutions

Want to go gluten-free? Swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. Not a fan of Parmesan? Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. You can even toss in grilled shrimp, sautéed spinach, or peas for extra protein or color.

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Ingredients for this Easy Lemon Butter Linguine

• Linguine – The star of the show. This flat, long pasta is perfect for holding onto the light yet creamy lemon butter sauce.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce. Unsalted allows you to control the final saltiness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness of the butter.
• Parmesan Cheese – Brings salty, umami depth and melts into the sauce for creaminess.
• Garlic (optional) – A clove or two minced adds a hint of aromatic depth.
• Salt and Cracked Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and adding a finishing bite.
• Pasta Water – A splash of this starchy water binds the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and herby freshness to finish.

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Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

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Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. If using garlic, add it here and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown.

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Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. The butter may sizzle a bit—that’s normal. Keep the heat on low to prevent separating.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained linguine to the skillet. Toss to coat in the lemon-butter sauce, adding a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen and emulsify the sauce.

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Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese into the pasta and stir until melted and glossy. Add more pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

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Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Top with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.

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How Long to Prepare the Easy Lemon Butter Linguine

This recipe is a true weeknight hero. From prep to plate, it takes about 20 minutes total.

Prep Time: You’ll need about 5 minutes to gather your ingredients, juice the lemon, grate the Parmesan, and optionally mince garlic or chop parsley.

Cooking Time: Boiling the pasta and building the sauce happens simultaneously. While the pasta cooks (about 10 minutes), you’ll be melting butter, adding lemon, and prepping the sauce—total cooking time is 10-12 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Easy Lemon Butter Linguine

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice—it’s brighter and less bitter than bottled versions.
• Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s key to creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
• Toss the pasta with the sauce over low heat to avoid separating the butter.
• Grate your Parmesan finely so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Add lemon zest for an extra punch of citrus flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Al dente is best to prevent mushy texture.
• Not reserving pasta water: This mistake can make your sauce clumpy or too thick.
• Using too much lemon: It can overpower the dish—balance is key.
• Letting the butter brown: Browned butter changes the flavor profile and competes with the lemon.
• Adding cheese over high heat: This can make it clump rather than melt smoothly.

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What to Serve With Easy Lemon Butter Linguine?

1. Grilled Shrimp

A simple protein that pairs well with the light citrusy notes.

2. Roasted Asparagus

Its earthiness and crunch complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

3. Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

4. Simple Arugula Salad

Tossed with olive oil and balsamic, it adds a peppery, acidic balance.

5. White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the lemony tones.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of water or broth when reheating helps bring it back.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of liquid to loosen. Microwave works too, but stir halfway through and avoid overheating.

Freezing: Not ideal for this dish—the sauce doesn’t hold up well to freezing and thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 13g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Use low heat when combining everything and add pasta water to emulsify the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients and store separately for faster cooking.

What’s the best cheese alternative if I don’t have Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano work well. Nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s creamy and mild, and you can reduce the lemon or pepper for younger palates.

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Conclusion

Easy Lemon Butter Linguine is the perfect fusion of simplicity and elegance. It delivers comfort, flavor, and freshness in every bite without overwhelming your kitchen or your schedule. Whether you serve it solo or with your favorite side, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple in your rotation.

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