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: Serves 2
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Ready in Minutes

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta for a satisfying meal that doesn’t take much time at all. It’s incredible how simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and pasta can transform into a dish bursting with flavor. Perfect for those busy weekdays or when unexpected guests arrive, this dish is both comforting and delicious. With just a few minutes of cooking, we can enjoy a plate of pasta that feels homemade and authentic, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine in a jiffy.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.122Z

Whenever I find myself short on time yet craving something hearty, this garlic pasta recipe is my go-to solution. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients, I can prepare an irresistible meal within 15 minutes. It’s always fun to experiment with different herbs or add a touch of red pepper flakes for heat!

Recently, I combined sautéed mushrooms with the garlic for an added depth of flavor, and it was fantastic. I recommend cooking the pasta al dente for the best texture. Plus, the lingering garlic aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick prep and cooking time makes it perfect for busy days
Rich garlic flavor balanced with the freshness of parsley
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or protein

Mastering the Garlic Flavor

Garlic is the star of this dish, and the way you prepare it can greatly influence the overall flavor. Sautéing minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat allows the oils to release, creating that wonderful aroma. Be careful not to cook it past two minutes, as browning the garlic can result in a bitter taste. A light golden color is perfect. If you prefer a more robust garlic flavor, consider using garlic confit, which is slow-cooked garlic in oil, adding sweetness and depth to your pasta.

For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes along with the garlic can elevate the dish. This pairing works particularly well if you're also incorporating extra vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. The heat from the garlic combined with the fresh vegetables creates a well-rounded dish that feels indulgent yet stays on the lighter side.

Customizing Your Pasta

One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily add an array of vegetables, such as sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus, to make it more substantial. Just toss these in with the sautéed garlic, allowing a few extra minutes for cooking until they are tender. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, which will enhance the flavor profile without compromising the dish's quick preparation time.

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, swap out the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta options like rice or quinoa pasta. Cook them according to package directions, ensuring you maintain the al dente texture, as these alternatives tend to become soft more quickly. The overall flavor will remain vibrant, especially with liberally added fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, we can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your garlic pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Sauté Garlic

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

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.

Season and Serve

Season with salt to taste, and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious garlic pasta!

Pro Tips

Experiment with adding crushed red pepper for a little heat or include sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dish further, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens provide a delightful contrast to the rich pasta, while the acidity cuts through the garlic-infused oil, balancing flavors beautifully. Additionally, crusty bread or garlic bread can be offered on the side to help soak up any extra sauce, turning this simple pasta into a comforting meal.

For a complete Italian experience, pair your pasta with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines typically complement the garlic's richness without overwhelming the dish. A crisp wine can enhance the overall dining experience and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warmth of the pasta.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water or additional olive oil can help revive the sauce, preventing it from becoming dry. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to bring back that glossy finish, which is essential for the dish's appeal.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked pasta. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and be sure to include some extra olive oil to maintain moisture. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in a skillet with a touch of reserved pasta water to refresh the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or linguine.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this garlic pasta is vegetarian. You can make it vegan by omitting the cheese.

→ Can I make this in advance?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance. Just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.