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 or linguine; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Simple

I love making Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta on busy weekdays when I want something delicious yet simple. This dish has become my go-to because it requires minimal ingredients, and it’s quick to whip up. The combination of garlic and olive oil creates a fragrant and flavorful sauce that coats the al dente pasta perfectly. What I enjoy most is that I can easily customize it with whatever vegetables or protein I have on hand, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:33:34.730Z

One evening, I found myself in the kitchen with only a few ingredients—pasta, garlic, olive oil, and parsley. I wanted to create something satisfying in a hurry, so I decided to throw together this garlic pasta. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it’s made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

As I sautéed the garlic in olive oil, I noticed how the aroma filled the kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. To add an extra touch, I sprinkle some red pepper flakes for heat. The result? A delightful dish that feels gourmet but takes only 15 minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic garlic flavor that fills the kitchen
Perfect for a quick weeknight meal
Easily customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies

      

The Importance of Al Dente Pasta

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in this dish. Al dente pasta remains firm when bitten, providing a nice contrast to the silky garlic oil. To get it just right, start timing from the moment it hits the boiling water. Check the pasta a few minutes before the package instructions suggest—around 7 minutes for spaghetti. It should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it, which also prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce.

Make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water; this is the only opportunity to season the pasta itself. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt per liter of water. This seasoning enhances the overall flavor of the dish—don't skip this step! If you’re in a pinch, you can use lower-sodium options or even flavored broths instead, but the key is ensuring the pasta absorbs some of that essential flavor.

Mastering the Garlic Oil Sauce

The garlic oil is the star of this dish. To get the most flavor from your garlic, be sure to mince it finely; this increases the surface area and allows it to infuse the oil more completely. Sautéing over medium heat for just 1-2 minutes allows the garlic to soften and release its natural oils without burning—burnt garlic becomes bitter, which can ruin the sauce. Look for a pale golden color and a fragrant aroma, signaling that it's ready to combine with the pasta.

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the dish. I recommend choosing an oil that’s labeled first cold-pressed for optimal flavor. While you can replace the olive oil with other oils, such as avocado or canola oil, the unique taste of olive oil is hard to replicate. Once the garlic is perfect, be ready to add your drained pasta immediately to capture that delightful garlicky flavor.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best aspects of this garlic pasta is its versatility. You can easily add seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for a nutritious boost. If you're looking to include protein, consider sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or even canned chickpeas for a plant-based option. Add any ingredients during the garlic sauté; just be sure they are cooked through before tossing in the pasta. This makes the dish satisfying while enhancing the flavor profile.

Got leftovers? This garlic pasta holds up well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth while warming on low heat, which helps prevent it from drying out. If you’re making it ahead for a gathering, prepare the garlic oil and store it in the fridge separately; simply toss everything together just before serving for optimal freshness.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Pasta Ingredients

200g spaghetti or linguine
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste

Garnish Ingredients

Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting the cooking process to really keep the time to 15 minutes!

Instructions

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt to taste. Serve topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy this dish warm, and don't forget to pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice before serving. You can also substitute the pasta with zoodles for a low-carb option!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within three days, as the garlic flavor can intensify over time. Reheating on the stovetop is ideal; add a dash of olive oil or a spoonful of water to prevent sticking and drying out, cooking gently until heated through. Avoid using the microwave if you want to keep the pasta's texture intact.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance for meal prep, consider cooking the pasta and garlic oil separately. Store them covered in the fridge and combine them just before serving. This method locks in the fresh flavors and allows for easier reheating, ensuring you enjoy the best of this recipe even days later.

Ingredient Substitutions

If spaghetti or linguine aren't available, feel free to swap in any pasta shape you have on hand—penne, fusilli, or farfalle work wonderfully as well. The key is to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture. For a gluten-free option, many brands offer gluten-free pasta varieties that can be substituted directly, though cooking times may vary slightly.

In terms of aromatics, you can experiment with shallots or even a hint of onion if you prefer a deeper flavor. Just remember to adjust the sautéing time accordingly; onions take longer to soften than garlic. Also, if you’re looking to reduce the heat from the red pepper flakes, consider using a mild paprika or leaving them out entirely—this pasta will still shine against the olive oil backdrop.

Serving Recommendations

For an extra touch, elevate your Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the olive oil, balancing the flavors beautifully. For those who enjoy a touch of freshness, consider adding a handful of arugula or baby spinach right before serving; it will wilt gently from the heat and add a vibrant color to the plate.

Pair this pasta with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the garlic flavor wonderfully, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner gathering. This dish also works well as a base for a larger spread, where you can offer grilled proteins or additional toppings for guests to customize their plates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta will work, such as penne, fettuccine, or even whole grain pasta.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly; just omit the optional Parmesan cheese.

→ How can I add more protein to this meal?

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Certainly! Just use gluten-free pasta, and the dish will still be delicious.