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, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Pleasures

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I'm short on time but still crave a delicious meal. The combination of simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and pasta creates a dish that feels both satisfying and gourmet. I appreciate how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with a salad, this pasta is a staple in my kitchen. Plus, garnishing it with fresh herbs elevates the flavors and makes it visually appealing.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:37:34.884Z

When I first made this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, I was amazed at how a handful of pantry staples could create such a delightful dish. The key is in sautéing the garlic slowly in olive oil; this draws out its sweetness and ensures a rich flavor without burning. I often add in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, which enhances the overall experience.

Over time, I’ve perfected this dish by focusing on timing. I cook the pasta in salted water while preparing the garlic, allowing the elements to come together seamlessly. Just remember not to overcook the pasta—al dente is the way to go for the best texture in your dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Simple ingredients create a burst of flavor
A versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins

The Importance of Garlic and Olive Oil

Garlic and olive oil are the stars of this dish, and their quality significantly impacts the final flavor. Opt for fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced or powdered forms to achieve a brighter, more vibrant taste. When sautéing, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the garlic; it should become golden and fragrant but avoid browning too much, as burnt garlic can render the dish bitter. A good-quality extra virgin olive oil not only adds richness but also complements the garlic beautifully.

In this recipe, the olive oil acts as the sauce, coating each strand of spaghetti and allowing the garlic's essence to meld throughout the dish. If you're looking to enhance the flavor further, consider using a flavored olive oil, such as garlic-infused, or adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing touch. Each of these choices will provide a unique twist while maintaining the simplicity of the original dish.

Versatility of the Dish

While this pasta shines on its own, it's a fantastic base for customization. You can easily add seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor. If you choose to include protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas pair beautifully with the garlic essence. Just be sure to cook your proteins beforehand and toss them in during the final combine step to ensure they warm through without overcooking.

For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of white wine or vegetable broth into the skillet after sautéing the garlic but before adding the pasta. This additional moisture will create a light sauce that invigorates the dish. Just allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until reduced before combining with your spaghetti.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your pasta:

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your meal:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté gently for 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is golden and fragrant.

Combine Everything

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Serve It Up

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes while combining the pasta with the garlic oil.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some components ahead of time. Cook the pasta earlier in the day, and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to reheat. For storage of leftovers, cool the pasta completely before refrigerating, and enjoy it within 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or additional olive oil to restore its texture.

If you're thinking of making a larger batch for meal prep, the garlic oil mixture can also be made in advance. Store it in a jar in the fridge and use it within a week. This way, when you're ready to eat, simply cook your pasta, reheat the garlic oil, and combine for a quick meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when preparing garlic pasta is overcooking the garlic, resulting in a bitter taste. Ensure that your skillet is preheated but not too hot—medium heat is ideal. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, you can remove it from the heat and allow the residual heat to finish the cooking; this method achieves the golden, fragrant garlic without crossing into bitterness.

Another possible concern could involve the texture of the pasta absorbing oil and drying out. If you find that the pasta feels dry after combining with the oil, adding the reserved pasta water gradually will help achieve a glossy, cohesive sauce. This step allows you to control the moisture level and helps the pasta envelop the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any type of pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is completely vegetarian! You can keep it vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta alternative.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost.