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; 60ml extra virgin olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen Fix

I love how making pasta can be both simple and luxurious, especially when you throw in just a few ingredients like garlic and olive oil. This Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is my go-to dish on busy nights when I crave something delicious yet quick to whip up. The aromatic garlic infuses the pasta seamlessly, and with just 15 minutes on the clock, you have a restaurant-worthy meal at home. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when friends drop by unexpectedly.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:50:35.808Z

When I first discovered the magic of garlic and olive oil in pasta, I knew I had found my new obsession. The trick is to let the garlic gently simmer in the oil to release its flavor without burning. I always use high-quality olive oil as it enhances the dish and adds richness. This method creates a lovely sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

One night, I was in a rush, but I still wanted something comforting, so I turned to this recipe. In just 15 minutes, I had a bowl of garlicky goodness that felt like a warm hug. I added a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color, and it elevated the dish remarkably!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ridiculously simple and quick to prepare
Perfectly al dente pasta with a flavorful garlic kick
Easily customizable with vegetables or proteins

Mastering Garlic Flavor

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the garlic. To get the best flavor, use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced. Freshly minced garlic will provide a more robust and fragrant aroma that enhances the oil and pasta. When sautéing, keep an eye on the garlic to ensure it turns golden, not brown; burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste, ruining the dish's delicate balance.

For a twist on flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will infuse the oil with a slight heat, complementing the richness of the olive oil and enhancing the overall taste without overshadowing the garlic itself.

Cooking the Perfect Spaghetti

Cooking spaghetti to the right texture is crucial for this dish, as you want it perfectly al dente. Start testing the spaghetti a minute before the package instructions indicate; it should be firm to the bite but not hard. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which won’t hold up well with the garlic sauce. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when you toss it with the sauce.

When draining the pasta, reserving some pasta water is essential. This starchy water can help you achieve that silky texture in the sauce when combined with the olive oil and garlic. Just add a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency, ensuring the dish remains cohesive and isn’t too oily.

Personalizing Your Dish

One of the best things about this pasta is its versatility. You can easily add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini for a heartier meal. Just toss them in right after the garlic to give them a quick sauté, integrating their flavors into the oil. This also adds visual appeal and additional nutrition to the dish without complicating the process.

If you're looking to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Just stir them in with the pasta at the end. This not only makes the dish more filling but also diversifies the flavor profile, keeping it interesting. Customize it to fit your cravings while maintaining the basic elegance of this quick garlic pasta!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
60ml extra virgin olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Now that you have everything ready, let’s cook!

Instructions

Follow these quick steps to make 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, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Saute the Garlic

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is ready, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic and oil. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water if necessary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish

Transfer the pasta to plates and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

That’s it! A delicious meal ready in no time.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This garlic pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you're looking to save time, you can prep the garlic oil in advance. Just sauté the garlic in olive oil and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy your pasta, just heat the garlic oil and toss with freshly cooked spaghetti for an effortless meal.

If you're planning to add vegetables or proteins, consider prepping them ahead as well. Chopping and storing your veggies in the fridge can significantly cut down cooking time during the week. Simply sauté them quickly after heating your garlic oil, and you’ll have a full meal ready in no time.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover garlic oil. For an elevated experience, serve it with a glass of white wine, which complements the garlic and olive oil perfectly. I often make a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

For a touch of gourmet flair, consider garnishing the pasta with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality balsamic vinegar. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also give a delightful crunch and depth, transforming your quick meal into something exceptional without extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds additional nutrients.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, or proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Just skip the Parmesan or use a vegan substitute.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.