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; 60ml extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Wins

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I’m short on time but still want something delicious. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan creates a dish that’s not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. In just 15 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal on the table that impresses without the stress. Perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous dinner guest, this recipe shows that simplicity can be both enjoyable and delicious.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:05:34.181Z

When I first experimented with garlic pasta, I wanted something quick yet packed with flavor. I found that using fresh garlic, gently sautéed in olive oil, really brought the dish to life. By adding just a pinch of red pepper flakes, you can kick up the flavor a notch without overwhelming the existing ingredients.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve some of the pasta water before draining it. Mixing a little into the sauce allows everything to meld beautifully, creating a silky texture that clings to the noodles. Trust me, this small step makes a big difference and elevates the dish.

Why You'll Love This Dish
Quick preparation time that fits any busy schedule
Bold garlic flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying
Versatile—perfect as a main dish or a side

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is undoubtedly the garlic itself. Fresh garlic, when sautéed, infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates the pasta. Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the overall taste, as it brings a fruity note and depth to the sauce. For added heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be included; however, feel free to adjust this according to your personal spice preference.

Choosing the right pasta is also key to achieving the perfect texture. Spaghetti works wonderfully with this recipe due to its ability to cling to the garlic oil, but you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine if preferred. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooked pasta.

Perfecting the Technique

When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it. The goal is to achieve a golden color without burning, which can happen in just a matter of seconds. Stir it continuously to ensure even cooking. If you do accidentally burn the garlic, it’s best to start over; burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste that will affect the entire dish.

Once you combine the pasta with the garlic oil, the reserved pasta water is crucial for creating a silky sauce. Adding the water gradually allows you to control the consistency better. If you find the pasta too dry, more pasta water can be added, whereas if it’s too wet, let it simmer for a minute longer to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
60ml extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Combine

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to coat, and add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the red pepper flakes and season with salt.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. It brightens the dish and complements the garlic beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

While this garlic pasta is delightful on its own, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully, balancing the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, serve with chicken or shrimp for added protein, turning it into a heartier main course.

For a festive touch, you might want to include additional toppings like toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, or fresh cherry tomatoes to add color and freshness. These additions can elevate the dish not only visually but also in flavor, creating a multi-dimensional dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or water to help restore the creamy texture and heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe is also great for freezing. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This allows you to enjoy a quick, homemade meal anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short or long pasta works well, such as linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this garlic pasta is vegetarian. Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp if desired.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegan version.