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; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper; Chopped parsley for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Flavor Fix

I love whipping up dishes that are both quick and satisfying, which is exactly why I gravitate toward this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta. With just a few pantry staples like garlic, spaghetti, and olive oil, I can create a delicious meal in a flash. It's perfect for weeknights when time is limited but I still want something that feels special. Trust me, you can savor every bite without the fuss!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T01:49:34.423Z

When I first stumbled upon this garlic pasta recipe, I couldn't believe how something so simple could be so flavorful. I made it on a busy weeknight, and I was amazed at how just a few ingredients could come together to create such a delightful dish. Tossing in fresh parsley at the end added a lovely color and further depth of flavor that made the pasta feel gourmet.

What makes this dish truly special is the technique of gently sautéing the garlic in olive oil. This not only releases its aromatic oils but also prevents it from burning, which can easily ruin the dish. Trust me, taking that extra moment to ensure your garlic is perfectly golden pays off immensely!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch
Adaptable for various dietary preferences with easy substitutions

      

Mastering the Garlic Flavor

The key to unlocking the full flavor of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta lies in the garlic sautéing technique. Using medium heat allows the garlic to infuse the oil without burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. Stir the garlic frequently as it cooks; you want it to turn a light golden color, which typically takes about 2 minutes. This gentle cooking method will ensure a rich, aromatic base for your pasta.

Garlic not only elevates the dish but also offers health benefits such as antioxidant properties. Fresh garlic is best, but if you find yourself without it, consider using a high-quality garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the quantity since dried herbs can be more concentrated. If using garlic powder, sprinkle it into the oil once it has heated up, allowing it to bloom for 30 seconds before adding the pasta.

Pasta Perfection and Texture

Cooking the spaghetti to al dente is crucial for the ideal texture of this dish. Al dente, which means 'to the tooth' in Italian, ensures that the pasta retains a slight firmness. The timing will vary based on the brand and thickness of your spaghetti, so start checking a minute or two before the package instructions are up. You should be able to bite into it without it being overly soft; it should have a pleasant chew.

Moreover, don't forget to reserve that pasta water! This starchy liquid acts as a natural thickener and helps bind the sauce, creating a glossy finish when tossed with the pasta. If your pasta looks dry when you add it to the skillet, slowly mix in a couple of tablespoons of the reserved water, stirring until you achieve a silky consistency.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the beauties of this garlic pasta recipe is its adaptability to various dietary preferences. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute traditional spaghetti with a gluten-free variety, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta. Both options will maintain the integrity of the dish while catering to dietary restrictions.

For a heartier meal, consider adding protein such as sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or even some white beans to boost the nutritional profile. You can toss these in during the last minute of cooking so they mix well with the garlic oil. Adding veggies like spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes not only enhances nutrition but also introduces color and flavor, making your quick dinner feel gourmet.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious garlic pasta in no time!

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper
Chopped parsley for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

You can easily modify the ingredients according to your taste, such as adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your garlic pasta!

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Sauté the Garlic

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

Combine and Serve

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. To serve, garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your meal! This pasta pairs well with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or spinach right before serving. They add a fresh element that's simply delightful!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed immediately, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just add a splash of olive oil and a bit of the reserved pasta water in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. This helps revive the flavors and prevents the pasta from becoming dry.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, cook the spaghetti al dente and store it separately from the garlic oil. Combine them when you're ready to serve to ensure that the pasta retains its ideal texture. This approach also allows you to throw in any additional ingredients right before serving, keeping everything fresh and vibrant.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it cooks. This will introduce a pleasant heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the pasta. You can also experiment with herbs beyond parsley; basil or oregano can infuse new dimensions that complement the garlic wonderfully.

You can make your garlic pasta even creamier by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese after tossing the spaghetti. This will create a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles. Alternatively, for a vegan option, try blending soaked cashews with garlic and nutritional yeast to make a creamy sauce that’s just as satisfying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your garlic is browning too quickly, reduce the heat immediately. Garlic can go from golden to burnt in seconds, so staying aware of the heat level is essential. If it does burn, it’s best to start over with fresh garlic to avoid a bitter taste ruining your pasta.

Another common issue arises when the pasta sticks together after cooking. To prevent this, make sure to stir the spaghetti occasionally while it cooks in the boiling water. If it does clump, tossing it in a little olive oil right after draining can help separate the strands and keep them from sticking together during the final steps.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions, and follow the rest of the steps as is.

→ What can I use instead of olive oil?

You can use butter or any other cooking oil, although olive oil really enhances the flavor!

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. The dish is already egg-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.