A simple and flavorful Gluten-Free Pasta with Garlic Butter Caper Sauce made with tender spaghetti, garlic, capers, white wine, and lemon. This easy pasta recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, light lunches, or a fast dinner for two. The buttery, tangy sauce clings to the noodles, creating a balanced and delicious gluten-free meal that pairs well with fresh herbs, vegetables, or protein additions like chicken or shrimp.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

6 oz gluten-free spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
1/4 cup white wine (Sauvignon Blanc recommended)
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons capers
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, being careful not to overcook as the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce.
Prepare the sauce.
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until golden brown. Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half.
Add liquids and capers.
Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Increase heat to high and simmer until the sauce is reduced by half. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and adjust salt if needed.
Combine pasta and sauce.
Remove the skillet from heat and toss in the cooked pasta. Stir to coat the spaghetti evenly with the sauce. Let the pasta sit for 3–4 minutes so the sauce thickens and adheres to the noodles.
Serve.
Garnish with fresh chopped herbs and a crack of black pepper, if desired, then serve immediately.

Tips

Use gluten-free pasta that holds its shape to avoid mushy noodles.
Don’t overcook the pasta—slightly undercooked spaghetti absorbs the sauce better.
Toast garlic lightly to bring out its flavor, but avoid burning it.
Letting the pasta sit briefly with the sauce helps it thicken naturally.

Variations and Substitutions

Pasta: Substitute with gluten-free fettuccine, penne, or linguine.
Capers: Swap for chopped green olives for a different salty flavor.
Vegetables: Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus for a veggie boost.
Protein: Top with cooked shrimp, chicken, or salmon for a heartier dish.
Wine: Use dry white vermouth or chicken broth if you prefer no alcohol.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served immediately, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.

How do I store leftovers?
Store pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with gluten-free garlic bread or a simple baguette.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino if dairy is not an issue.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy gluten-free pasta with bold flavors.
A perfect balance of tangy, salty, and buttery notes.
Versatile and customizable with vegetables or proteins.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or a light, elegant meal.