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; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Favorites

I absolutely adore the simplicity and flavor of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta! With just a few basic ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal that tastes like it took hours. The garlic infuses the pasta with an incredible aroma, while the olive oil adds a silky richness. Whether I'm in a hurry or simply looking for a comforting dish, this recipe never disappoints. You won’t believe how quick and satisfying it is—perfect for busy weeknights or sudden cravings!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:57:35.133Z

When I first made this Garlic Pasta, I was floored by how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. I remember thinking, 'How can I make this a regular meal in my household?' The trick is to allow the garlic to simmer gently in the olive oil without burning it. This step transforms the flavor and makes the pasta more fragrant and appetizing.

Another tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining! This starchy water is a game-changer; it helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a beautifully coated dish that keeps everything together without being too oily. Trust me, you'll want to give this a try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation in just 15 minutes
Rich and aromatic garlic flavor
Perfectly comforting and satisfying
Versatile for any meal occasion

The Role of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish, contributing both aroma and flavor that elevates simple pasta to a comforting meal. When sautéing the garlic, it's crucial to keep an eye on its color to avoid burning—the golden hue indicates that it's perfectly cooked and ready to impart its sweet, nutty notes to the oil. This method also ensures that the flavor melds beautifully with the olive oil, creating a rich base for the pasta.

If you want to enhance the garlic flavor even further, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting mellows its sharpness and adds a depth of flavor that complements the olive oil splendidly. Simply roast whole cloves wrapped in foil for about 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until soft and lightly caramelized, then mash and incorporate them into the oil.

Customizing Your Pasta

While traditional garlic pasta is beautifully simple, feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Just pre-cook these additions before tossing them in with the spaghetti to ensure everything is warmed through. This adds an extra layer of heartiness without complicating the recipe.

In terms of veggies, consider adding a handful of spinach or kale during the final minutes of cooking to wilt in the residual heat. This not only increases the nutritional value but also adds vibrant color to your dish. Remember to adjust the seasoning a bit if you add additional ingredients, as they can absorb some of the flavor from the garlic oil.

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
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything ready before you cook to make the process easier.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your pasta:

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 the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.

Prepare Garlic Oil

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and just begins to turn golden.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the pasta by adding vegetables or proteins such as grilled chicken or sautéed spinach for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the texture from becoming gummy, allow it to cool completely before sealing. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove over low heat to help maintain the pasta's integrity. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or olive oil to bring back the creaminess while reheating, stirring gently to combine.

Freezing garlic pasta is an option too, though it may slightly alter the texture. To freeze, portion the pasta into small containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat the same way as for leftovers, making sure to moisten the pasta so it doesn't dry out.

Serving Ideas and Variations

Serve your Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of lemon juice to enhance the flavors further. A side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly to round out the meal, offering additional crunch and flavor that complements the pasta's richness. For a more gourmet touch, try finishing with a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious earthy aroma.

Consider experimenting with cuisine by swapping out the spaghetti for other types of pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work wonderfully, adapting the dish to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste. This also provides a great canvas for seasonal ingredients; think about adding roasted asparagus in the spring or sun-dried tomatoes during the summer months to keep your meals fresh and exciting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

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

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply ensure that your pasta is egg-free and use plant-based olive oil.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or some grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor!

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, just add a splash of water and reheat on low heat while stirring to loosen the sauce.