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, thinly sliced; 50ml extra virgin olive oil; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Studio

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I'm short on time but craving something delicious. The combination of sautéed garlic and olive oil creates a beautiful aromatic base that perfectly coats the pasta. In just 15 minutes, I can turn a few pantry staples into a dish that feels special. It’s amazing how quickly this meal comes together, and it’s a fantastic way to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:18:37.782Z

Making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta became a family favorite in my house. The other night, after a long day, I wanted something comforting yet quick to prepare. By gently sautéing the garlic in olive oil, I discovered that it released a wonderful flavor without burning, which is key to achieving that perfect savoriness. I paired it with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for an extra touch of elegance.

One tip I’ve found is to reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining; it’s a game changer! Adding a splash of the starchy water helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta, making every bite absolutely flavorful. I can't recommend this enough for busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy nights.
Delicious garlic aroma fills your kitchen.
Versatile dish that can be dressed up or down.

Garlic: The Flavor Hero

Garlic is the star of this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta, bringing a robust flavor profile that elevates the dish significantly. Slicing the garlic thinly ensures that it cooks evenly and releases its essential oils more efficiently. When sautéed, the garlic becomes fragrant and transforms into a sweet, nutty flavor. Be cautious during this step; garlic can turn bitter quickly if cooked too long or at too high a heat. A golden color indicates it's ready to create the perfect aromatic base for your pasta.

In this recipe, using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced or powdered forms adds a depth that enhances the overall experience. Each clove contributes its distinct pungency, which melds beautifully with the olive oil, creating a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti. This balance between the oil and garlic is crucial for achieving a glossy finish that signals the pasta's readiness to be enjoyed.

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking spaghetti to al dente is essential for texture in this dish. Al dente means 'to the tooth,' giving that slight resistance when you bite into it. If you overcook the pasta, it can become mushy and lose its ability to hold the garlic sauce. I suggest checking the pasta a minute before the recommended time on the package, as different brands can vary. Once cooked, remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for creating a perfectly emulsified sauce.

To prevent the pasta from sticking while you prepare the sauce, do not rinse it with cold water after draining. Instead, immediately add it to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and oil. The heat from the pasta helps the sauce adhere better, enriching each strand with flavor. Tossing the pasta vigorously in the skillet ensures that every piece is evenly coated with the delicious garlic oil.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this garlic pasta is delightful as is, it offers a wonderful canvas for various toppings and additions. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp can turn this dish into a heartier meal. If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat, balancing beautifully with the richness of the olive oil.

When it comes to serving, a generous grating of Parmesan cheese enhances the dish's savoriness and provides a lovely salty note. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that adds a similar cheesy flavor. For an extra touch, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the overall taste. I often keep fresh herbs on hand to sprinkle on top, as they add freshness and a pop of color.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Pasta

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
50ml extra virgin olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Garlic

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

Combine Pasta with Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it (reserving a cup of pasta water) and add it to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sautéed vegetables along with the garlic.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself without spaghetti on hand, this recipe is quite adaptable to other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. Whole wheat and gluten-free pasta options work just as well, though cooking times may vary. Additionally, olive oil can be swapped with melted butter for a different flavor profile, lending a richer touch to your garlic sauce. Infused oils also make a fantastic alternative—consider using garlic-infused olive oil to heighten the dish's core flavor.

For those watching their sodium intake, low-sodium options for salt and cheese can be utilized without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of parsley to give the dish a different aromatic quality. Remember, cooking is all about flexibility, and adapting ingredients can lead to delightful surprises!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This garlic pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If you find the pasta has absorbed too much of the sauce during storage, don’t hesitate to add a little more olive oil to bring back its lusciousness.

Freezing is another option, although the texture may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, arrange the pasta in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid clumping, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as outlined above. Adding fresh herbs after reheating can restore some of the vibrant flavor and freshness.

Boosting Flavor with More Ingredients

If you're looking to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic. This will deglaze the skillet, lifting off those delightful browned bits and adding a complex depth to your sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes before adding your pasta to enhance the flavors before serving.

Another fantastic way to add flair to your garlic pasta is by topping it with toasted breadcrumbs. To make these, simply sauté panko bread crumbs in olive oil until golden. This not only provides a crunchy texture but also brings a buttery richness that complements the overall dish beautifully. Feel free to experiment with these flavor boosters to make this simple meal even more enjoyable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

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

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian. Just be sure to use vegetarian Parmesan cheese if you want it to be strictly vegetarian.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil and water to refresh the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan substitute to make the dish fully vegan.