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: Serves 2
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, sliced; 60ml olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Ideas

I love cooking quick meals that are bursting with flavor, and this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is a perfect example. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a delicious dinner that impresses anyone. The garlic infuses the dish with a robust aroma, while the fresh herbs provide a refreshing touch. Plus, it requires minimal cleanup, making it my go-to on busy weeknights. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you'll never want to go back to store-bought pasta again!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:25:34.857Z

Making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta has become a delightful ritual in my kitchen. The moment I slice the garlic and start cooking it in olive oil, the aroma fills the room, and I know a delicious meal is on the way. I've experimented with adding different herbs, but I find that parsley and basil complement the garlic perfectly without overpowering its flavor.

I remember one particular night when I was pressed for time; this recipe saved dinner! I combined the cooked pasta with sautéed garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of parmesan. In just 15 minutes, I had a gourmet meal that felt like a treat, all thanks to the simplicity of good ingredients working together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation without sacrificing flavor
Versatile dish that can be customized with added vegetables or proteins
Perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings

The Role of Garlic in Flavor Development

Garlic is the star of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, and its role goes beyond just seasoning. It offers a rich, aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish, turning simple pasta into a culinary experience. When sautéed in olive oil, garlic releases its natural oils, which beautifully infuse the pasta with flavor. Aim for a golden brown color when sautéing; this is the point where the garlic achieves the perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes without becoming bitter.

For an extra twist, you might consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This brings a delightful heat that complements the aromatic garlic. However, be cautious; one or two flakes can transform your dish into something fiery, so adjust to your palate!

Customizing Your Pasta

One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. The basic framework of garlic, olive oil, and pasta serves as a canvas for countless variations. You can easily toss in vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to enhance nutrition and color. These additions not only provide a freshness that contrasts beautifully with the garlic but also can change the texture and mouthfeel, giving your dish complexity. If you're adding vegetables, include them in the skillet after the garlic, allowing them to soak up those savory flavors before tossing in the pasta.

Meat lovers can also customize this dish with proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon. These can be incorporated alongside the garlic for a rich, hearty experience. Just make sure to adjust your cooking times accordingly to ensure the proteins are cooked perfectly without compromising the garlic’s golden appearance.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this pasta keeps surprisingly well. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. Simply place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or some of the reserved pasta water, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and avoid sticking.

For those considering meal prep, you can cook the pasta in advance and store it separately from the garlic sauté. To reheat, simply return to the skillet with fresh oil and garlic, allowing the pasta to absorb some of those vibrant flavors all over again. This method ensures your dish maintains that freshly made quality each time you enjoy it.

Ingredients

To make this pasta, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, sliced
60ml olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you're all set to cook!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your 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. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Be careful not to burn it!

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your quick and delicious garlic pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This will give your pasta a delightful heat that complements the flavors beautifully.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the bold flavors of your Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, consider pairing it with a light side salad. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette makes for a refreshing balance. This not only adds contrast but also enhances the overall dining experience without overshadowing your main dish.

For a more indulgent option, serve the pasta alongside some crusty garlic bread. The additional crunch and garlic flavors can enhance your meal, making it feel like a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you're gluten-sensitive, there's no need to miss out. Substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta varieties such as rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based noodles. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of gluten-free pasta used, so refer to the package instructions for the best results.

For those looking to lower carbohydrate intake, zucchini noodles (zoodles) can serve as an excellent alternative. Simply spiralize zucchini and quickly sauté it with the garlic to create a delightful, low-carb version of this pasta dish that does not compromise on flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up or down this recipe is simple and effective. If you're cooking for a larger gathering, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities while keeping the same ratios. Ensure that your skillet is large enough to accommodate all ingredients without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Conversely, if you're preparing a smaller serving or a solo meal, you can easily halve the ingredients. Cooking a smaller batch might reduce the garlic’s cooking time slightly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. This ensures you achieve that perfect, golden-brown garlic that packs a flavorful punch, regardless of the portion size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any type of pasta works well with this recipe, including penne, fusilli, or gluten-free options.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! You can also add grilled vegetables or a side salad for extra nutrition.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic and oil mixture in advance and combine it with cooked pasta when ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with garlic pasta?

This pasta pairs nicely with a simple green salad or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.