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

Highlighted under: Effortless Food Ideas

I absolutely love how effortlessly this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta comes together. With just a handful of ingredients, it's perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t have much time. The rich garlic flavor combined with a hint of chili flakes creates an exciting taste that makes this dish a favorite in our home. I can whip it up in no time, making it a go-to recipe when I'm short on time but don’t want to compromise on flavor!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:21:34.559Z

When I first made this dish, I was blown away by how quickly it came together. The secret is using fresh garlic and good-quality olive oil, which makes all the difference in flavor. I still remember the first time I served it to my friends—they couldn't believe it was made in just 15 minutes!

Over time, I've learned that adding a pinch of red pepper flakes not only elevates the dish but also plays beautifully with the garlic. It’s so versatile; feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables or proteins to make it your own. This pasta never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Bursting with flavor from fresh garlic
Easily customizable with veggies or proteins

Mastering Garlic Flavor

The key to achieving a beautifully aromatic garlic flavor in this pasta dish lies in managing the heat. When sautéing the minced garlic, stick to medium heat to avoid burning, which can result in a bitter taste. You're aiming for a golden hue and a fragrant aroma, typically around 1-2 minutes of cooking. If garlic starts browning too quickly, you can lower the heat to ensure it develops its rich flavor without burning.

Fresh garlic is crucial in this recipe as it provides a bright, sharp taste that powdered garlic simply can’t mimic. If you're ever out of fresh garlic, you can use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove as a substitute, but note that it may lack that pungent depth. For an even more robust flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, letting it reduce slightly before tossing in the spaghetti.

Perfecting the Pasta

Choosing the right type of pasta can elevate your dish, and while spaghetti is a classic choice here, you can easily swap it for linguine or fettuccine if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the package instructions to ensure it’s al dente, which gives that satisfying bite. Drain your pasta but reserve some of the cooking water; it’s a vital component for creating a glossy sauce that clings to the noodles.

If you’re looking to add more nutrition or color, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the garlic for extra flavor and vibrant presentation. Just keep an eye on the cooking times of different ingredients—add heartier veggies first, followed by quicker-cooking options like spinach, for the best texture balance.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Pasta

200g spaghetti
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional)

Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic depending on your preference!

Instructions

Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine and Toss

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the garlic oil, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your meal!

This dish can be ready in a flash, making it ideal for unexpected guests!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare in advance, you can cook the pasta and store it separately from the garlic oil mixture. Toss the spaghetti in a bit of olive oil before refrigerating to prevent it from sticking. When you're ready to eat, reheat the pasta in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help loosen it up and revive that glossy sauce.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over moderate heat, adding a little olive oil or water to prevent dryness. This simple method will help maintain the pasta’s texture and flavor.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

For those who love a bit of zest, consider adding freshly squeezed lemon juice or zest at the end of cooking. This brightens the dish and complements the garlic beautifully. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs like basil or thyme in place of parsley can create a new flavor profile, making this recipe endlessly versatile.

If you're looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms can be excellent additions. Cook them separately and then mix them into the pasta just before serving. This transforms your garlic pasta into a heartier meal, perfect for adding nutritional variety and satiety.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even cooked chicken for added protein!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan with a little olive oil.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian. Just omit the Parmesan cheese to make it vegan!