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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Dishes

I love quick meals, especially when they're packed with flavor! This 15-minute garlic pasta is my go-to for a hassle-free dinner after a long day. The best part? It requires just a few pantry staples, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. With the aromatic scent of freshly sautéed garlic and a touch of olive oil, this dish brings comfort to our family table. It's a delightful way to enjoy a simple yet satisfying pasta dish without the fuss.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:13:34.186Z

When I first tried making garlic pasta, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a delightful dish. I remember getting the timing just right: sautéing the garlic until golden but not burnt was the key. It’s amazing how the aroma fills the kitchen, pulling everyone in!

Over time, I tweaked the recipe to fit our tastes, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick and a sprinkle of parmesan for richness. Trust me, following these little tips can take this dish from good to absolutely delicious!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation, perfect for busy nights
Simplicity that doesn’t compromise on flavor
Versatile dish that pairs well with various toppings

Cooking Tips for Perfect Garlic Pasta

When cooking the spaghetti, ensure the water is at a rolling boil and generously salted to enhance the pasta's flavor. The salt not only seasons the pasta but also helps in achieving the right texture. Aim for al dente, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the brand. This texture holds up better against the sauce and keeps the dish from becoming mushy.

For sautéing garlic, medium heat is crucial. If the heat is too high, the garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Look for a golden color—this indicates the garlic is perfectly sautéed. Also, stir frequently to maintain even cooking and release that wonderful aromatic fragrance without risking overcooking.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of olive oil is vital to this recipe. A good quality extra virgin olive oil not only provides flavor but also adds healthy fats. If you are looking for a stronger flavor, consider infusing the oil with herbs like rosemary or thyme before adding the garlic. Just heat the oil gently with the herbs to extract those flavors, then strain them out before cooking the garlic.

Red pepper flakes elevate this dish with a touch of heat, balancing the richness of the olive oil. Depending on your spice tolerance, you can adjust the quantity. For a milder version, swap the flakes with a pinch of smoked paprika, which adds flavor without heat.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 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 salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water.

Sauté Garlic

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and just golden.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat the spaghetti in the garlic oil, adding more pasta water if needed. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Transfer to plates, garnish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan if desired. Enjoy your meal hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding lemon zest or capers to the sautéed garlic. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a nutritious boost.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic pasta can easily be enhanced with various toppings to suit different tastes. Consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. For protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent additions, turning the dish into a more hearty meal.

If you prefer a refreshing twist, squeeze some lemon juice over the finished pasta for brightness. A sprinkle of zest can also elevate the dish, providing aromatic complexity that complements the garlic beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauté the garlic mixture separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This will save preparation time on busy nights. When ready to serve, simply combine them in a heated skillet, adding a splash of water as needed to bring it back to life.

If you need to store leftover pasta, cool it down and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of water, tossing until warmed through. This will help regain some moisture and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta type you enjoy will work; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I add for protein?

Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a delicious protein boost.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of olive oil.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative, and you're all set!