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 of garlic, thinly sliced; 60ml olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Solutions

I absolutely love making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I'm in a pinch for time but still want something delicious. It's incredible how just a handful of ingredients can come together to create a satisfying meal in such a short time. I often find myself in situations where my schedule gets hectic, and this recipe is my go-to because of its simplicity. I’m always surprised at how much flavor can come from garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, making this dish a favorite for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.371Z

I remember the first time I made this Garlic Pasta in under 15 minutes. I was astounded by how such a simple dish could be so flavorful. The key is to sauté the garlic just enough to release its aromatic oils without burning it. This ensures the pasta is coated in a rich, garlicky goodness without it being overpowering.

This dish is perfect for those hectic days when you want something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. I love the flexibility it offers; adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a handful of fresh basil can easily elevate the flavors, making it a versatile recipe in my cooking repertoire.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick preparation with minimal cleanup
Bold garlic flavor that satisfies the taste buds
Versatile ingredients that you probably already have at home

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

Achieving perfectly al dente spaghetti is crucial for this dish. When you add the pasta to boiling salted water, stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. Start tasting a minute or two before the package instructions suggest; it should be tender but still firm to the bite. If it's still too hard, give it another minute and check again. This simple technique will help ensure your pasta enhances the dish's texture rather than becoming mushy and bland.

Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a culinary secret that can elevate your garlic pasta. Adding it gradually to your skillet after combining the pasta and garlic can help create a silky texture, ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to each strand. Aim for a glossy finish—if your dish looks dry, just add a splash more water until you reach your desired creaminess.

The Role of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish, contributing both flavor and aroma. Sautéed in olive oil, it transforms from a pungent raw clove into a sweet, mellow ingredient that rounds out the dish's profile. Be careful not to overcook it; if you let it turn too dark, it can become bitter. Keep the heat at medium and stir until the slices turn a light golden brown, about 2-3 minutes—this will ensure the best flavor.

For those who love garlic but want to tone it down, consider using roasted garlic instead. Roasting mellows its sharpness and adds a buttery richness that harmonizes beautifully with the olive oil and Parmesan. Just replace the raw cloves with about 4-5 cloves of roasted garlic, mashed into a paste before adding to the skillet, and enjoy the added depth in flavor it brings to your pasta.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
60ml olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown, being careful not to burn it, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with garlic. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic during sautéing to give it a nice kick. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're in need of substitutions, this recipe is quite versatile. For a gluten-free option, swap spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta, keeping an eye on cooking times as they may vary. Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can also enhance the dish's nutritional profile while adding a unique flavor. Experimenting with different pasta shapes can also change the texture and presentation significantly, making the meal feel new each time you prepare it.

Adding vegetables can elevate this garlic pasta into a more well-rounded meal. Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini noodles can easily be tossed in with the garlic for a nutritional bump. For additional protein, try incorporating cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. These enhancements will not only add health benefits but also introduce new flavors and textures that make this dish even more satisfying.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pasta and sautéed garlic in advance. Cook the spaghetti and let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the olive oil and garlic in a skillet, adding the cold pasta directly to warm it through, with reserved pasta water if needed to revitalize the sauce.

To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring to a sealed container. The garlic pasta will keep well in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Reheat it gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Be mindful not to overheat, as the garlic can become bitter when reheated improperly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute spaghetti with any pasta you have on hand, like penne or fusilli.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly.

→ What can I add for protein?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions to make this pasta more filling.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of olive oil.