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 or your favorite pasta; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Cooking

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I need a delicious meal in no time. It combines the satisfying flavors of garlic and olive oil with al dente pasta, creating a comforting dish that’s both simple and satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal ingredients, which I usually have on hand. This means I can prepare a satisfying meal even after the longest of days, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:25:34.742Z

During one of those busy evenings, I found myself staring into the pantry, unsure of what to make for dinner. I remembered a simple garlic pasta recipe that I had seen and decided to give it a try. The combination of fresh garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes was exactly what I needed to lift my spirits after a hectic day. It turned out incredible!

What I discovered is the secret to great garlic pasta lies in not overcooking the garlic; it should be just enough to release its flavor without burning. I like to toss in some fresh herbs at the end for a burst of freshness, making the dish even more aromatic. It’s a quick meal that never disappoints!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients that you likely have at home
Quick to prepare, ready in just 15 minutes
Flavorful garlic aroma that fills the kitchen

Perfect Pasta Cooking

Cooking your pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. Generally, this means cooking your spaghetti until it’s firm but tender, which usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes depending on the brand. Keep a close eye on it, as undercooked pasta will not absorb the garlic sauce well, while overcooked pasta may turn mushy. Always taste a strand a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to check its doneness.

It's important to note that the reserved pasta water is vital for creating a creamy sauce. This starchy water helps to bind the oil and garlic sauce to the pasta. Make sure to save this water before draining and to add it gradually back into the skillet to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Too much at once may lead to a soupy result, while too little may leave your dish dry.

Key Flavor Components

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil not only adds flavor but also improves the overall mouthfeel of the dish. You want to ensure that you heat the oil gently over medium heat; if the temperature is too high, the garlic can easily burn, turning bitter. Keeping a close watch while sautéing will allow your garlic to become aromatic and golden without crossing that fine line.

The inclusion of red pepper flakes adds zest and depth to the otherwise simple flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance—adding less will simply enhance the garlic flavor, while a bit more will lend a pleasant heat. Experiment with flavored oils or infuse your olive oil with herbs for a creative twist.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before getting started:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you'll be all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious garlic pasta:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Garlic Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic. Toss well to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve a desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese if using.

And there you have it, a delicious garlic pasta ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes to the garlic mixture. They pair wonderfully with the pasta!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're short on spaghetti, this recipe is versatile enough to work with any type of pasta. Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta can hold up well to the garlic oil sauce. Just ensure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you're using, as some varieties may require longer to achieve that perfect bite.

For those wanting to add protein or vegetables, consider sautéing some shrimp or spinach alongside the garlic for a complete meal. Just remember to add these ingredients as you’re sautéing the garlic; if using quicker-cooking proteins like shrimp, ensure they are added after the garlic is aromatic to avoid overcooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to cool the pasta completely before storing it in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to help revive the dish, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

If you're looking to prepare it for meal prep, consider cooking a larger batch of garlic oil to keep on hand. This can be drizzled over pasta or used as a dressing for salads, allowing you to create quick meals with minimal effort throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.

→ Is there a substitute for fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic is best, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove of garlic.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative, and this dish will be entirely plant-based.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed chickpeas can add protein and turn this into a more filling meal.