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 olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Magic

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta on those busy nights when I just want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It features a simple combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs that come together beautifully in just 15 minutes. The best part is that it's versatile enough to accommodate whatever vegetables or proteins I might have on hand, making it a go-to recipe for quick meals. Trust me, this dish is a surefire way to impress anyone with minimal effort!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:45:34.593Z

As I made this pasta, the aroma of garlic sautéing in olive oil filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my mood. I decided to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, which complemented the dish perfectly. This is one of those recipes that I can rely on no matter how hectic my day has been.

One tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added back to the pasta to create a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to each strand. It’s a game-changer for achieving a restaurant-quality finish at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation that saves you time on busy nights
Simple ingredients that yield incredible flavors
Versatile base that can be customized to your taste

Ingredient Spotlight: Garlic

Garlic is the star of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta. When sautéed in olive oil, garlic releases its natural sugars, providing a rich, aromatic foundation for the dish. Aim for a medium heat level to cook the garlic until it's fragrant and lightly golden; this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If you overcook it, the garlic can turn bitter, so keep a close watch!

Using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced options significantly enhances flavor. I recommend using whole garlic cloves that you can crush and mince just before use. This offers the best taste and aroma. If you're in a pinch, however, you can substitute with jarred minced garlic, but the flavor won't be quite as vibrant.

Customizing Your Pasta

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily incorporate leftover vegetables or proteins to elevate your dish. Consider adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even grilled chicken for additional flavor and texture. If you choose to add vegetables, sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic to ensure they are tender and their flavors meld beautifully.

For those following a gluten-free diet, swap out the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta varieties like chickpea or brown rice pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free options tend to cook differently.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or some of the reserved pasta water to revive the sauce's consistency. Stir gently until heated through, which should take about 5 minutes.

This pasta doesn't freeze well due to the texture of the noodles. However, if you want to prepare in advance, consider making the garlic oil mixture and storing it separately. Then, simply cook the pasta fresh when ready to eat and combine it with the pre-made sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your pasta dish:

For the Garlic Pasta

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

Ensure everything is ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your garlic 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 water, then drain the rest.

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 and lightly golden.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic oil. If the mixture seems dry, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat, and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your dish hot!

And there you have it—a fantastic garlic pasta ready in just 15 minutes!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or proteins like spinach or shrimp for extra nutrition and flavor. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable!

Pairing Suggestions

Garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the robust flavors of the pasta, adding a refreshing crunch. Roasted vegetables or a warm crusty bread can also round out the meal, providing additional textures while ensuring you have enough to soak up that delightful garlic oil.

For a comforting twist, serve the garlic pasta alongside a rich tomato sauce or an herbed cream sauce. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the garlicky noodles, creating a multi-dimensional eating experience. Try garnishing with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue you might face is ending up with a sticky pasta. This can happen if the pasta is overcooked or if it hasn't been thoroughly tossed in the garlic oil. To avoid this, ensure you're cooking the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. If you find it clumped together post-cooking, adding reserved pasta water will help loosen it up.

Another trouble spot can be seasoning. Adding salt at the right moments is crucial; season your pasta water well, and taste the dish before serving. If it feels flat, a little more salt or acidity from lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option and will add more fiber to your meal.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative to keep it plant-based.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best eaten fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil mixture ahead of time, and cook the pasta just before serving.

→ What can I pair with this pasta?

This garlic pasta pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.