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; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta whenever I need a comforting meal in a hurry. The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills my kitchen, reminding me of my favorite Italian trattorias. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, using fresh herbs really elevates the dish, adding a burst of color and freshness that you won't want to miss!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:25:34.566Z

When I first tried making garlic pasta, I was searching for a recipe that would capture the essence of simplicity. I realized that sometimes, less is more. With just a few ingredients, this dish transformed from a mere idea into a delightful reality. The key lies in the technique of turning fresh garlic into a fragrant sauce, which I guarantee will become a staple in your kitchen.

This recipe has survived countless tests in my home, and I’ve learned that using high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs truly makes a difference. The final touch of grated Parmesan ties everything together wonderfully. Trust me, you'll want to keep coming back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation time without sacrificing flavor
Garlic aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth
Flexibility to customize with veggies or proteins

      

Key Ingredient Insights

Garlic is the star of this dish, contributing depth and richness. When sautéing, aim for a golden brown color, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes over medium heat. This caramelization enhances the sweetness of the garlic. If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid a bitter taste.

The choice of pasta, in this case, spaghetti, is crucial for the sauce. Spaghetti's long strands allow for better coating in the garlic oil, ensuring an enjoyable bite. You can substitute with other pasta types like linguine or fettuccine, but remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for al dente doneness to achieve the perfect texture.

Customization and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable; feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes. Sauté them in the garlic oil for a couple of minutes before adding the pasta. You can also incorporate proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. If you prefer a vegan option, simply omit the Parmesan and substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the garlic oil during cooking. This adds warmth and complexity to the dish without overpowering the garlic's essence. Additionally, a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest right before serving can brighten the flavors and enhance the overall dish.

Serving Ideas and Storage

To serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a light sprinkle of lemon zest can elevate the dish further, making it visually appealing and fragrant. This pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. Freezing is not recommended due to the garlic's texture and flavor changes, but you can prep the garlic oil in advance and freeze it in ice cube trays for quick use in future dishes.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large 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 and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with a bit of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the garlic oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve

Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating red pepper flakes for some heat, or toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta seems dry after mixing with the garlic oil, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water. This not only helps with moisture but also allows the starchy water to form a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Don't hesitate to toss it in vigorously to ensure every strand is coated evenly.

A common mistake when sautéing garlic is burning it. To prevent this, keep a close watch and stir continuously once the garlic is in the pan. If you find yourself in a pinch and accidentally burn it, start over; burnt garlic can ruin the overall flavor of the dish.

Make-ahead Tips

You can prep the garlic and olive oil mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to two days and use it as an instant flavor booster for other quick meals throughout the week. Simply reheat it when you're ready to cook the pasta.

If you're serving this dish for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe. You can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it warm over low heat, allowing guests to toss in freshly cooked pasta just before serving for a delightful, made-to-order experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will work just as well and add more fiber to the dish.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

While the pasta is best fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance and store it. Just cook the pasta when you're ready to eat!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra olive oil.