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 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Rushed Meals

I love making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I'm in need of a quick meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. It's astonishing how just a handful of ingredients can create such a satisfying dish. The combination of garlic and olive oil comes together beautifully, bringing warmth and depth to the pasta. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:05:34.537Z

When I first made this pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I remember thinking that I'd have a flavorful meal in just a few minutes, and it delivered! The simplicity of the garlic and olive oil creates a rich base that enhances the pasta's natural taste.

One of my best tips is to ensure that the garlic is sautéed just until it's fragrant but not browned; this ensures the pasta has a lovely, aromatic flavor without any bitterness. Trust me, this dish will have you coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation that fits into any busy schedule
Bold garlic flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Versatile base that you can customize with your favorite ingredients

Unlocking the Power of Garlic

Garlic is not just a flavor enhancer; it plays a crucial role in achieving the depth of taste that defines this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta. When you sauté minced garlic in olive oil, the process releases aromatic compounds that transform the dish. Cook it gently over medium heat, ensuring it softens and becomes fragrant without browning. This takes about 1-2 minutes and elevates the overall flavor profile, creating a deliciously inviting aroma that wafts through your kitchen.

For those who enjoy a more intense garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting mellows the harshness while enhancing sweetness, and you only need about 3-4 cloves of roasted garlic to replace the raw version. Simply add it to the skillet along with the olive oil, mashing it slightly to integrate, and you’ve got a creamy, rich garlic base that pairs beautifully with your pasta.

Perfecting the Pasta Technique

Cooking spaghetti until it's perfectly al dente is an essential step in this recipe. Too often, pasta is overcooked, leading to a mushy texture that doesn’t hold up when tossed with the sauce. Aim for a cooking time within the package guidelines, typically around 8-10 minutes, and test it about a minute before the timer goes off. You want it to have a slight bite—this will absorb the garlic oil, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

When draining your spaghetti, reserving that 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water is key. This water adds silkiness to the dish; if you find your pasta drying out after tossing it in the garlic oil, the starchy water can bring it back to life. Slowly add a few tablespoons at a time until you achieve that ideal glossy consistency.

Customizing Your Garlic Pasta

One of the great things about this garlic pasta is its versatility. You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables or protein to transform the dish further. For instance, adding sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes not only enriches the flavor palette but also adds color and nutrition. If you want a protein boost, try tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp. Just make sure to cook these separately and add them towards the end to maintain their textures.

If you’re looking for more spice, you can amp up the flavor profile by increasing the red pepper flakes, or even adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Another option is to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They can be added at the end for a fresh garnish that’ll make your garlic pasta even more delightful.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious garlic pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it brown.

Combine

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Now you're ready to savor your delicious garlic pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked protein like shrimp or chicken to the dish. You can also swap out the spaghetti for any pasta shape you prefer.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the pasta might absorb the garlic oil, so when reheating, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to restore its delectable texture. You can reheat it in the microwave, covered to retain moisture, or in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the garlic pasta. Pack it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Remember that the texture might change slightly upon thawing, but with a little extra olive oil or broth, you can bring the flavors back to life.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta for guests, serve it on warmed plates to maintain its temperature longer. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh burst of flavor that complements the garlic beautifully. Providing a small bowl of grated Parmesan cheese on the side allows each person to customize their dish according to their preference.

Pair this pasta dish with a crisp green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A light, fruity white wine, like Pinot Grigio, also complements the garlic flavors well. Feel free to get creative with your sides; garlic bread or a simple bruschetta adds an Italian twist that perfectly rounds out your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works perfectly with this recipe! Just be mindful of the cooking times.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. The dish will still be flavorful!

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this garlic pasta.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.