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: 8 oz spaghetti; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Speedy Kitchen Creations

I love making this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta whenever I'm short on time but craving something delicious. The combination of fresh garlic and al dente pasta creates a wonderful aroma in my kitchen that is simply irresistible. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of my time, I can whip up a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet remains light and fresh. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when I have unexpected guests.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:54:34.766Z

One evening, I was in a hurry to prepare dinner but didn’t want to compromise on flavor. That’s when I thought of garlic pasta; it’s quick, satisfying, and showcases the beauty of simple ingredients. The key is to sauté the garlic until just golden, which infuses the olive oil with a rich flavor that clings to the pasta beautifully.

As I plated the pasta, I couldn’t resist adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. This turned out to be the perfect final touch. Now, I make this dish anytime I want a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The garlic flavor is robust yet balanced, thanks to the olive oil
Easily customizable with additional ingredients like veggies or protein

Mastering Garlic Infusion

The key to achieving the perfect garlic-infused oil lies in the sautéing technique. You want to heat the olive oil over medium heat, ensuring it doesn't overheat, which can cause the garlic to burn quickly and turn bitter. Keep an eye on it, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant and just golden brown, usually within 1-2 minutes. If you notice any browning starting too quickly, reduce the heat immediately to avoid ruining the flavor.

Another vital point is to consider the type of garlic you use. Fresh garlic will provide a sharper, more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or jarred garlic. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing different varieties, like using roasted garlic for a sweeter depth or adding shallots for a mild onion flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different forms of garlic will caramelize and cook at different rates.

Customizing Your Dish

This Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is incredibly versatile and lends itself to numerous variations. For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. These not only enhance the flavor but also introduce color and nutrition to the dish. Simply toss them into the skillet with the garlic oil before adding the pasta, allowing them to cook just until tender, usually around 2-3 minutes.

If you prefer more protein in your dish, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work wonderfully. Prepare your protein separately and toss it with the pasta in the skillet before serving. This method allows you to maintain the original pasta's flavor while incorporating new textures and tastes. You can also experiment with adding a sprinkle of cheese, such as Parmesan or Pecorino, right before serving for an extra layer of richness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Juice of half a lemon (optional)

You can easily adapt these ingredients based on your pantry supplies.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Garlic Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn it.

Combine and Serve

Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving a small amount of pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to combine, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some sautéed vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Storage Tips

This Garlic Pasta is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to help rejuvenate the dish and prevent it from drying out. Microwave on low or reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

If you want to make it ahead, consider storing the garlic oil separately from the pasta. Cook the pasta until just al dente—about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions—then toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When ready to serve, heat the garlic oil and toss in the pre-cooked pasta, finishing the cooking in the skillet.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. If serving a larger group, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly, keeping in mind that you may need to adjust cooking times slightly as a larger batch of pasta can take a bit longer to reach the desired al dente texture. More garlic oil may be needed, so adjust to taste to maintain flavor balance.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one, keep in mind that you can break the spaghetti strands in half, cooking only what you need. This keeps the recipe user-friendly without requiring any special equipment. Store any leftover ingredients in your pantry and fridge for later use, making it convenient for a quick meal anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure that the pasta used is made without eggs.

→ What should I serve with this pasta?

This garlic pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, you can store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can reduce or skip the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences.