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; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Red pepper flakes, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Dishes

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I’m short on time but want something delicious. It’s a go-to dish that never fails to impress. The combination of garlic's rich aroma and the simplicity of pasta creates an incredibly satisfying meal. With just a handful of ingredients, I can bring together flavors that dance on my plate in minutes. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for those busy weeknights when I need to put together a meal in no time.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:30:35.033Z

One evening, I was craving pasta but had limited time and ingredients. Looking through my pantry, I stumbled upon some spaghetti and garlic. That’s when I decided to create this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta. The best part is how the garlic infuses the oil, creating a simple yet flavorful sauce. I couldn’t believe I could have such a satisfying dish ready in just 15 minutes!

By sautéing the garlic on low heat, it develops a mellow sweetness that really elevates the dish. I also added a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. This method ensures that the garlic doesn’t burn and keeps the flavor vibrant. It’s simple pasta at its finest, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your kitchen too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days
Garlicky goodness that excites the palate
A versatile base for endless variations

      

Mastering the Garlic Flavor

Getting the perfect garlic flavor is crucial in this dish. Sautéing the garlic slowly over medium-low heat allows the essential oils to release gradually, infusing the olive oil with a deep, aromatic essence. Keep a close eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning; it should turn a light golden color. If the heat is too high, the garlic can quickly turn bitter, ruining the dish’s delicate balance.

Red pepper flakes add a delightful kick of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder version, consider using a pinch of paprika or leaving out the flakes entirely. This way, you can create a version of the dish that’s perfect for the entire family while still retaining that essential garlic flavor.

Perfecting the Pasta Technique

Cooking the pasta to the ideal al dente texture is key to a successful dish. This means it should be firm to the bite yet cooked through. Every spaghetti brand has slightly different cooking times, so be sure to read the package instructions closely. To make life even easier, you can set a timer for a minute before the recommended time is up; this ensures you can taste-test and achieve that perfect texture.

Additionally, reserving pasta water is essential for creating a cohesive sauce. The starchy water helps bind the oil and pasta together, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. If you accidentally forget to reserve it, you can always add a splash of plain water while mixing to achieve a similar effect.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make this quick dish.

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful meal.

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté Garlic

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce. Season with salt.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnishing with chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious 15-minute meal!

Now, sit down and savor your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or your favorite vegetables. This dish is very versatile, so feel free to customize it according to your taste!

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

While spaghetti is the classic choice, you can easily swap it out for other pasta types, such as linguine or fettuccine, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For a gluten-free option, look for chickpea or lentil pasta which works well with the garlic and olive oil.

Olive oil is integral to this dish for its flavor and consistency. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using a light olive oil or even avocado oil. Coconut oil can also be used, but it will lend a subtle sweetness that changes the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, or reheat it in a pan over low heat for better control over the texture.

It's not ideal to freeze garlic pasta as the texture of the noodles can become mushy once thawed. However, if you must, consider freezing the garlic oil separately. Then, when ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and toss it with the thawed oil for a fresh meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work just fine.

→ What if I don't have fresh garlic?

You can use garlic powder, but fresh garlic will give you the best flavor.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure your pasta is egg-free if you want it completely vegan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.