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, sliced; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Instant Delights

I absolutely love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta whenever I want a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a dish that's not only satisfying but bursting with flavor. The garlic infuses the pasta with a rich aroma, while a hint of olive oil elevates the taste to gourmet levels. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive. I always keep garlic and pasta on hand for quick meals like this!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-26T01:58:34.140Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The combination of garlic and olive oil is a classic, but there's something about the speed that makes it special. I usually prepare it while boiling the pasta, ensuring every minute counts. Another tip is to use a good quality olive oil; it really elevates the overall flavor of the dish.

I've experimented with adding various vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, which not only adds color but also nutrition. Each time I make this dish, it reminds me of dining in a cozy Italian restaurant but conveniently in my own kitchen. It's a dish I know I'll never tire of!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Deliciously fragrant garlic aroma fills your kitchen
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins

The Importance of Garlic in Garlic Pasta

Garlic is the star ingredient in this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, providing a robust flavor profile that elevates the dish. When sautéing garlic, aim for just 2 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant. This brief cooking time allows the garlic to release its essential oils without burning, which can impart a bitter taste. Adjust your heat to medium to prevent it from cooking too quickly, ensuring a perfectly aromatic base for your pasta.

If you're looking to customize the garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting mellows the sharpness and adds a sweeter, caramelized note. To roast garlic, wrap whole cloves in foil with a touch of olive oil, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes. This simple swap can transform the dish into a completely different experience.

Perfecting the Pasta Texture

Cooking spaghetti to the al dente stage is key to achieving the right texture in this dish. Follow the package instructions but start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier; the pasta should be tender yet firm when bitten. This slight resistance helps the pasta hold up against the sautéed garlic and oil and enhances the overall mouthfeel.

Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining! This starchy liquid is essential for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. When you combine the spaghetti with the garlic oil, gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring until you achieve a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the noodles.

Serving and Customization Tips

Presentation matters, even in quick recipes! To serve, pile the pasta high on plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. If you're feeling indulgent, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty richness that complements the garlic perfectly. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top before serving.

Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste preferences! Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the garlic and oil mixture for a more nutritious meal. If you want to include protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can also be tossed in at the end, turning this quick dish into a hearty feast.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, sliced
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

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

Prepare the Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

Serve

Season with salt to taste, then remove from heat. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in your favorite vegetables for added health benefits.

Making It Ahead

This Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be made in advance for meal prep. Cook the pasta and prepare the garlic oil ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. To serve, simply reheat the garlic oil over low heat and toss in the precooked pasta, adding a splash of pasta water to revive the flavors and prevent sticking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta on a stovetop with a little olive oil and reserved pasta water, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Alternatively, you can pop it in the microwave, adding a few drops of water to maintain moisture.

Possible Variations

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes along with the garlic in the skillet. This addition not only enhances the dish’s depth but also gives it a delightful heat that pairs well with the rich garlic flavor. Start with a pinch and adjust to your heat preference, cooking it briefly to release its fragrance.

You can also switch up the pasta type depending on your dietary needs or preferences. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be excellent substitutes to make this dish more wholesome. The cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check package instructions for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you have on hand.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a similar result.

→ What can I pair this dish with?

This garlic pasta goes wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back the sauce.