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; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Effortless Plate Creations

I love whipping up quick meals that don’t compromise on flavor, and this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is one of my favorite go-to recipes. In just a quarter of an hour, I can create a delicious dish that’s packed with garlicky goodness, olive oil richness, and a dash of fresh parsley. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when I just want to treat myself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to dive into this culinary delight?

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T01:53:44.741Z

My introduction to garlic pasta happened one evening when I was craving something comforting yet simple. Armed with just a few ingredients in my pantry—pasta, garlic, and olive oil—I discovered how quickly I could bring a delicious dish to life. The trick is to balance the garlic's flavor perfectly, which I learned by sautéing it gently until fragrant but not browned. This method elevates the dish and ensures vibrant flavors.

On one occasion, I added a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick, and it instantly transformed the dish into something extraordinary. Using high-quality olive oil and fresh parsley made all the difference in elevating the flavors. Every time I make this pasta, I’m reminded that sometimes, the simplest meals can be the most satisfying!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Ridiculously quick to prepare, it fits into the busiest of schedules.
Garlic-infused flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
Versatile: pair it with your favorite protein or veggies for a complete meal.

Mastering Garlic Pasta

To achieve the perfect garlic flavor in your Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta, the cooking of the garlic is crucial. It’s important to sauté the minced garlic just until it's fragrant and lightly golden—around 2-3 minutes on medium heat. If you let it brown too much, the garlic can turn bitter, which would negatively impact the dish's flavor. Watch carefully to ensure it remains a lovely light color, enhancing the dish with its aromatic qualities.

The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon! This starchy liquid helps to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti. When incorporating the pasta water, add it incrementally—start with a few tablespoons and stir until the desired consistency is achieved. The goal is a glossy finish that coats the pasta without creating a soupy mess. If you accidentally add too much water, don’t fret; you can always cook it a bit longer in the skillet to thicken up.

Ingredient Insight

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil can greatly enhance the overall taste of your pasta. The richness and fruitiness of good olive oil are essential, as it forms the base of the sauce that complements the garlic. If you want to elevate the dish even further, consider infusing your olive oil with chili flakes for a bit of heat or using flavored oils like lemon or basil to add a unique twist.

When it comes to the cheese, I highly recommend freshly grated Parmesan for its depth of flavor and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy profile without the dairy. Just remember to sprinkle it generously on top, and it will still deliver that satisfying umami kick.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Let's get cooking!

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlic oil. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until reaching the desired consistency.

Garnish and serve

Remove from heat, season with salt, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, with grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil to help revive the sauce and prevent the spaghetti from becoming dry. Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta instead. Place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container, sealing tight, and they can last for up to two months. To reheat frozen portions, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the skillet reheating method. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven reheating and rubbery pasta.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables to make this pasta even more vibrant. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini work wonderfully and add both color and nutrients to the dish. You could toss them in the skillet right after the garlic is fragrant, giving them just enough time to soften without losing their fresh appeal.

For a protein-packed meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These ingredients can be cooked separately and then tossed with the pasta before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of white wine added to the skillet after sautéing the garlic can provide a beautiful depth of flavor. Just let it reduce for a minute before adding the spaghetti.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, like fettuccine or penne.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

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

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions to make it a complete meal.