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 any pasta; 4 cloves garlic, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Fast Family Favorites

I love whipping up a delicious meal in no time, and this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is my go-to recipe for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a savory and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Italy to my dinner table. The garlic infuses the pasta with fragrant flavor, while the olive oil adds a rich texture. Whether I'm cooking for myself or entertaining guests, this dish always impresses and leaves everyone wanting more.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:02:36.695Z

Every time I make this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, I am reminded of my travels in Italy, where rustic dishes highlight simple ingredients. One evening, I found myself in a charming trattoria, and they served a garlic-infused spaghetti that was everything I had hoped for and more. Inspired, I set out to recreate that experience in my kitchen.

The secret to its deliciousness lies in opting for freshly minced garlic and high-quality olive oil. Sautéing the garlic just until it turns golden allows it to release its natural oils and flavor without burning. It’s the perfect way to elevate a simple pasta dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation in just 15 minutes
Savory garlic flavor that captivates the taste buds
Versatile base for additional toppings or proteins

Perfecting the Garlic Infusion

The star ingredient in this pasta dish is garlic, which should be treated with care to release its full flavor without becoming bitter. When sautéing the garlic, use medium heat to allow it to become fragrant and develop a light golden color. Cooking it too quickly on high heat can lead to burnt bits that overpower the dish. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t stick to the pan; it should just start to bubble in the olive oil before proceeding to the next step.

If you’re a fan of more intense garlic flavor, consider using garlic powder or roasted garlic as a substitute. Roasted garlic adds a sweeter, milder profile that can be especially pleasing. To roast garlic, slice off the top of a whole bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and bake at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes until soft. Blend it into the pasta along with the sautéed garlic for a double dose of flavor.

Customizing Your Pasta

This garlic pasta serves as a fantastic base for customization. If you’re looking to add more protein, grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas work beautifully. Just remember to cook the protein separately and toss it in at the end to keep everything warm without overcooking. Additionally, consider including seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist. Sauté them in the garlic oil just before adding the pasta to enhance their flavor and texture.

For those watching their carb intake, substituting spaghetti with zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta can maintain the spirit of the dish while adding nutrition. If using fresh zucchini noodles, be mindful to cook them for less time to prevent a mushy texture; just a quick sauté in the garlic oil for about 2-3 minutes will do the trick.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your pasta dish irresistible:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or any pasta
4 cloves garlic, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil water and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

A quick and satisfying meal that never disappoints!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked shrimp to this pasta dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta can be a great meal-prepping option. You can prepare the garlic oil in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. When you're ready to eat, simply cook your pasta and toss it in the pre-prepared oil for a super-fast meal. If you choose to add vegetables or proteins, prep them ahead of time so they can easily be incorporated without slowing down dinner prep.

To store leftover pasta, let it cool entirely before transferring it to a sealed container. It can last in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to bring back moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this pasta, elevate the dish with fresh garnishes for a restaurant-quality presentation. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the olive oil and garlic. Consider setting out a bowl of grated Parmesan cheese for guests who want to add a layer of creaminess to their plate—a little goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Pair this dish with a light side salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to complement the savory garlic pasta. The acidity from the dressing helps cut through the richness, making your meal feel balanced. A crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, might also be a delightful accompaniment, highlighting the flavors of garlic and herbs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta type, including gluten-free options.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it doesn't contain meat. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian if you're using it.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil ahead of time. Just reheat it before combining with the pasta.

→ What other flavors can I add?

Consider adding cherry tomatoes, spinach, or olives for additional flavors and colors.