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 pasta of your choice; 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Easy Food Fix

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta whenever I need a satisfying meal in a hurry. It's a delightful combination of al dente pasta, fragrant garlic, and a hint of chili that always makes me feel energized. In just a few simple steps, I can have a delicious dish on the table that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe saves time while delivering incredible flavor.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:41:34.791Z

During one particularly busy week, I found myself craving something comforting, yet I had little time to cook. That's when I stumbled upon the idea of quick garlic pasta. By sautéing fresh garlic in olive oil, I learned that it infuses the dish with an intense aroma that elevates the simplest ingredients.

I decided to experiment with a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick, which transformed the flavors beautifully. What I love most is how versatile this recipe is; you can add vegetables or protein based on what you have on hand!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Deliciously fragrant with garlic and a hint of spice

Mastering Garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish, and getting it right is essential for maximum flavor. When sautéing the garlic, make sure to keep an eye on it—not just for aroma, but for color as well. You want it golden, not burnt, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste that can spoil the dish. Adjust your heat to medium-low once the garlic starts to sizzle to control the cooking process better.

To enhance the garlic flavor further, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasting mellowes its sharpness, giving your pasta a rich, sweet undertone. Simply wrap whole garlic cloves in foil and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes until they’re soft and caramelized. Mash them into the olive oil before adding to the pasta for a depth of flavor.

Perfect Pasta Texture

Cooking pasta to al dente is key for achieving the perfect texture in your dish. This means it should be firm when bitten but not hard. Follow the timing suggested on the package closely, and start tasting a minute or two before the suggested time. If you're using fresh pasta, this will cook significantly quicker, often in under 3 minutes, so stay vigilant to avoid overcooking.

After draining the pasta, make sure to reserve a bit of the cooking water. This starchy water can be a game-changer for the sauce. Toss it in a few tablespoons at the end to create a silkier, more cohesive dish. The starch helps the garlic oil cling to the pasta, resulting in a gorgeously glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta can be a blank canvas for additional flavors and textures. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked shrimp or sautéed chicken breast. These additions can enhance the heartiness of the dish while balancing out the garlic's intensity. Be sure to toss them in just before serving to let the warmth infuse into the pasta.

If you enjoy a touch of brightness, squeeze fresh lemon juice over your plated pasta or add lemon zest during cooking. This brightens the overall flavor profile and contrasts beautifully with the richness of the olive oil. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or pasta of your choice
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to add any additional toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese or grilled chicken for extra flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic oil. Season with salt to taste and mix well.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley and additional red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy immediately!

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of spaghetti or simply want to switch things up, most pasta shapes work well in this recipe—fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free alternatives will yield delicious results. Just adjust the cooking time according to the specific type of pasta you choose.

For those looking to minimize fat content, you can substitute olive oil with a light vegetable broth. It will add moisture to your dish without the richness, but keep in mind that you may lose some of that signature garlic flavor, so consider adding a dash of garlic powder as well.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your garlic pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, avoid using the microwave as it can make the pasta gummy. Instead, warm it slowly in a skillet, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help break up the pasta and restore its silky texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing it. Transfer the cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. The pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then gently warm it in a skillet, adding fresh ingredients like parsley to brighten up the flavors again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ What can I add to the recipe for more protein?

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

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian and can also be made vegan by omitting any cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.