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: Serves 2
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Ready in Minutes

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta on busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a dish that's both satisfying and delicious, perfect for when I want something simple but impressive. The fragrant garlic combined with fresh parsley and a hint of chili flakes create a wonderful aromatic experience in the kitchen. Plus, it's the quickest way to impress guests with my cooking skills—who knew that making pasta could feel so gourmet with minimal effort?

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:58:36.415Z

When I first made this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly I could put together a flavorful dish with very few ingredients. The key to making this pasta shine is using freshly minced garlic, which infuses the oil and brings everything together beautifully. I also learned that tossing the pasta in the pan with the sautéed garlic ensures each strand is perfectly coated.

Another surprising tip I discovered is the importance of reserving a bit of pasta water. Adding it to the garlicky oil helps emulsify the sauce, making it creamy and cling to the pasta, which is just what you want for a perfect finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation with minimal ingredients
Bold garlic flavor that invigorates the senses
Versatile enough to serve as a main or a side dish

Unlocking the Flavor of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish, and its preparation plays a crucial role in achieving that rich flavor. When sautéing minced garlic, be mindful to cook it over medium heat to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste that overshadows the dish. I find that cooking it until it's just golden and fragrant—usually about 2 minutes—ensures the best results. The oil will start to become glossy, releasing its aromatic qualities into the pasta.

If you're looking for a bolder flavor, you can consider adding roasted garlic instead of fresh. To roast garlic, simply wrap a whole head in foil and bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes until soft. This method will give your pasta a sweet, mellow garlic flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chili flakes.

Adjusting the Heat

The red pepper flakes in this recipe add a lovely heat that elevates the entire dish. However, if you're sensitive to spice or cooking for someone who is, feel free to adjust the amount. Start with a pinch, taste the pasta after tossing it, and you can always add more if desired. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your audience—just remember that the longer the flakes sit in the hot oil, the more the heat will develop.

For those who want to skip the heat entirely, try substituting the red pepper flakes with freshly cracked black pepper or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. This variation can create a completely different flavor profile while still keeping the garlic as the dominant taste, ensuring a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta can be served on its own, but I often enhance it with seasonal vegetables. Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted asparagus make excellent additions. Just toss them into the pan along with the pasta for a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Alternatively, a scoop of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can make the dish even more impressive.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water in a pan over low heat. Stir consistently until warmed through, which will bring back the dish's glossy texture without drying it out. I usually recommend against freezing this pasta, as the texture of the garlic and olive oil can change during the freezing process.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this delicious garlic pasta:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

With these simple ingredients, you're just a few minutes away from a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your garlic pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the spaghetti. Add it to the pan with the garlic oil, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Season with salt and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

And there you have it—a delectable garlic pasta ready to enjoy in just 15 minutes!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to your pasta.

Ingredient Insight

The choice of pasta can make a subtle difference in your dish. Spaghetti is traditional, but feel free to experiment with linguine or fettuccine for a different texture. Keep in mind that thinner pasta types will cook faster, so adjust the boiling time accordingly. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, countless alternatives are available such as rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti made from legumes, which also adds extra protein.

Olive oil is a key ingredient here, not just for cooking but also for its flavor. Opt for an extra virgin olive oil to introduce a fruity profile that complements the garlic. If you're in a pinch, a light vegetable oil can be used, but it won't provide the same rich taste. Additionally, infusing the olive oil with herbs such as thyme or rosemary before using it can add another layer of flavor to the garlic pasta.

Variations and Additions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese after tossing the pasta with the garlic oil. This will create a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti. Alternatively, a few tablespoons of lemon juice added at the end can brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the oil and garlic.

Herbs are another wonderful way to customize this dish. If fresh parsley isn't available, you can try basil or even cilantro for a different flavor profile. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can enhance the Mediterranean vibe, making each bite a little burst of flavor. Mix and match based on what you have on hand, and enjoy the endless possibilities that this simple pasta base offers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works deliciously with any pasta type you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Is it possible to make this dish without garlic?

While garlic is the star, you could substitute it with other ingredients like shallots for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.

→ Can I add protein to this pasta?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can enhance the dish and make it more filling.