Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta

Name: Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I've always been a fan of quick meals, and this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta has become my go-to dish for busy nights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, I can whip up a delicious, garlicky pasta that feels like a cozy hug. The secret lies in infusing the olive oil with fresh garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, creating a fragrant sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Trust me, once you try it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this simple recipe in your repertoire.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:05:34.559Z

When I first started making this garlic pasta, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so fantastic. Using high-quality olive oil is essential; it not only adds richness but also enhances the flavor of the garlic. I’ve learned that letting the garlic soften in the oil without browning it is key, as burnt garlic can turn bitter, ruining the entire dish.

Another tip I discovered is to reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. Adding a splash of this starchy water to the sauce helps it adhere better to the pasta, creating a creamy texture without any cream. This dish has quickly won over my family and friends, and I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated cheese for an extra touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
Minimal ingredients but maximum flavor
Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or proteins

Mastering the Garlic Flavor

Infusing the olive oil with garlic is the star of this dish. When heating the oil, keep it at medium heat to prevent the garlic from burning, which can introduce an unpleasant bitterness. Aim for a light golden color that signals the garlic is ready to release its aromatic juices. This technique maximizes flavor without compromising the subtlety of fresh garlic.

If you're after a deeper garlic flavor, consider crushing the garlic cloves instead of slicing them. This change increases the surface area, allowing more oil to coat the garlic. Just be cautious and keep an eye on the skillet to avoid overcooking; you want the garlic to soften beautifully, not turn crispy.

Pasta Perfection

Cooking the spaghetti to the perfect texture is crucial for this recipe. Always refer to the package instructions for timing, but taste a strand a minute or two before the end to achieve that al dente bite. Remember, the pasta will continue cooking slightly when you toss it with the sauce, so undercooking it just a touch ensures a perfect final result.

Don't forget to reserve that 1/2 cup of pasta water! It’s a game-changer for the sauce's consistency. The starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky finish. If your pasta appears dry after mixing in the garlic oil, gradually add the reserved water until you achieve a glossy, cohesive dish.

Customizing Your Dish

While this recipe shines on its own, it's incredibly adaptable. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked proteins like shrimp or chicken during the toss-in phase. They will heat through quickly, absorbing the garlicky flavor without needing extra cooking time. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces for an even distribution.

You can also enhance the nutritional profile by incorporating your favorite vegetables. Lightly sautéed spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be tossed in with the pasta for added color and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so the veggies remain vibrant and slightly crisp.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking gently until the garlic is soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt to taste.

Garnish

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pasta just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to a skillet and warm gently over low heat. This will help revive the sauce's texture, preventing it from becoming too sticky. Stir frequently until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Pack it in freezer-safe containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and prepare to enjoy that delightful garlic aroma again!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this garlic pasta with a crisp side salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad topped with cherry tomatoes and a light dressing complements the flavors beautifully.

For an elevated presentation, consider plating the pasta in shallow bowls, topping each serving with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a few extra flakes of red pepper for a pop of color. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine to round out your meal – a perfect choice for those cozy dinner nights!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! For a vegan option, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-cook the pasta and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the sauce before serving.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta available at most grocery stores for this recipe.