Keto Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter
Creamy zucchini noodles tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with melted Parmesan, ready in under 15 minutes. This italian-inspired vegetarian (low carb, vegetarian) ready in about 15 minutes pairs medium, spiralized zucchini, butter, minced garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart.
Ingredients
- 3 medium, spiralized zucchini
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent browning.
- Step 2: Add 3 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet, season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes until zucchini is tender but still firm.
- Step 3: Stir in 2 tbsp butter and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until melted and evenly distributed. Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if desired, then remove from heat immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Keto Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (10 min prep + 5 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Keto Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep medium, spiralized zucchini from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Keto Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Keto Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Keto Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Butter low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Best zucchini noodles recipe I've tried. The cheese and garlic butter combo is spot on.
- ★★★★★
Quick and delicious keto meal that even my picky eater enjoyed.
- ★★★★★
The garlic butter made it so flavorful. A new favorite!