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, minced; 60ml olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Plate Ideas

I absolutely love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I’m short on time but still crave something delicious! The rich flavors of garlic mixed with simple pantry ingredients make this dish a perfect go-to for busy weeknights. It’s incredible how just a handful of ingredients can come together to create a meal that feels fancy yet is so straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can impress your family or guests with this delightful pasta.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:05:34.494Z

When I first tried this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, I was blown away by how such simple ingredients could create something so delicious. The combination of olive oil and fresh garlic creates an aromatic base that truly elevates the dish. I often add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, which complements the garlic perfectly.

One of the best tips I can offer is to reserve some pasta water before draining your noodles. Mixing a splash of this starchy water into your finished pasta helps create a lovely sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles, making every bite flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation saves time without sacrificing flavor
The aromatic garlic creates a comforting and inviting dish
Perfectly versatile; add proteins or veggies for a complete meal

Perfecting the Garlic Flavor

Garlic is the star of this dish, bringing its characteristic aroma and rich taste. To achieve the best flavor, it’s crucial to sauté the garlic over medium heat. This prevents it from burning, which would introduce bitterness. Stir it continuously for 1-2 minutes until it's golden and fragrant, ensuring you monitor closely because garlic can go from perfectly cooked to burnt quickly.

Using fresh garlic is essential for a vibrant flavor in this pasta. If you need to substitute with garlic powder, keep in mind that a little goes a long way—about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder can replace a clove. However, I recommend sticking to fresh for the best outcome to retain that aromatic punch.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Spaghetti is a classic choice for this recipe, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other long pasta types, such as linguine or fettuccine. It's important to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the garlic oil in the skillet. This method ensures the pasta maintains a delightful texture without becoming mushy.

If you're looking to reduce gluten or calories, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as these alternatives may require slightly different cooking durations than traditional pasta.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This garlic pasta is a versatile base that pairs well with numerous ingredients. For a more filling meal, consider adding protein like grilled shrimp, chicken, or sautéed mushrooms. Simple additions can transform the dish entirely; add spinach or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrients. Toss them in during the final minute of cooking for extra freshness.

To elevate the dish further, try incorporating a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving. The acidity brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the oil and garlic. Experimenting with red pepper flakes can also provide a spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your garlic pasta:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
60ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

These ingredients will create a fantastic, flavorful pasta dish in no time!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your pasta:

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, then drain the noodles.

Prepare the garlic oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Combine spaghetti and garlic oil

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta looks dry, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season and serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious garlic pasta!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add sautéed vegetables or cooked shrimp to elevate the dish even further! You can also adjust the garlic amount based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil and a dash of water in a skillet over medium heat to bring back moisture and flavor.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time for meal prep, consider cooking and cooling the pasta separately. You can make the garlic oil and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent the pasta from getting sticky.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that the pasta appears bland, don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning. Taste it before serving and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch of Italian herbs to enhance the overall flavor profile. Balancing the seasoning with the garlic oil is key for the perfect bite.

If your garlic oil feels too greasy, simply toss in a bit more pasta water to loosen it up and help the sauce cling to the spaghetti better. This can help create a glossy finish that makes your dish visually appealing and enhances the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you have on hand.

→ How do I store leftover pasta?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use olive oil, which is vegan-friendly.

→ What can I add to make this a full meal?

Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or a medley of seasonal vegetables for added protein and nutrients.