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; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Rushed & Ready

I’ve always loved whipping up quick meals when I’m short on time, and this 15-minute garlic pasta never disappoints! It comes together effortlessly with just a handful of ingredients, yet the flavors are absolutely vibrant and satisfying. The addition of fresh garlic and a hint of chili flakes creates a lovely warmth that elevates this dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend lunch, this pasta recipe has become my go-to for a quick and delicious pick-me-up.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:33:34.708Z

I once found myself with nothing but a box of spaghetti and some garlic when I was pressed for time. With just those simple ingredients, I crafted a dish that truly exceeded my expectations. I learned that the key is to sauté the garlic slowly. This way, you extract all the aromatic goodness without burning it. Trust me, the taste is worth it!

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. When I add some cherry tomatoes or spinach, it boosts the flavor and adds a pop of color. You’ll have a beautiful, quick dish in no time!

You'll Love This Garlic Pasta Because
It's ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
The garlic flavor is bold yet comforting, making it a family favorite.
You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

The Importance of Garlic in This Dish

Garlic is the star of this quick pasta recipe, imparting a rich umami flavor that elevates the entire dish. When sautéed in olive oil, garlic develops a golden hue, releasing its natural oils and aromas. This process not only enhances taste but also adds a nuanced sweetness that balances well with the chili flakes. Be cautious while cooking; burning the garlic leads to a bitter taste, so keep an eye on it, stirring frequently.

Using fresh garlic is key for achieving that punchy flavor. If you're short on time, pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch, but it doesn't provide the same depth of flavor. I recommend using whole cloves and slicing them for optimal texture and aroma. As they sauté, they’ll start to soften and become slightly caramelized, which adds a delightful texture contrast when mixed with the spaghetti.

Customizing Your Pasta Experience

This 15-minute garlic pasta is a fantastic base for all sorts of add-ins. For a heartier meal, consider tossing in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. If you'd like to boost your vegetable intake, sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully. Just remember to add these ingredients to the skillet at the same time as the garlic, so they heat through but retain some bite.

To amplify the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving. It provides a fresh brightness that complements the richness of the olive oil and garlic. Additionally, a handful of toasted nuts, like pine nuts or walnuts, can introduce an exciting crunch and a nutty flavor, making this dish even more satisfying.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious garlic pasta:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Gather these ingredients, and you're all set for a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your garlic pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili flakes. Sauté until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Combine Pasta and Garlic

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlic oil. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to help combine.

Serve

Season with salt and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your quick and garlicky delicioso pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of baby spinach during the last minute of cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This garlic pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture and prevent drying out. Heat it gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave, stopping to stir to ensure even warming.

The dish can also be frozen for a longer shelf life, although the garlic flavor may mellow slightly once defrosted. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the reheating tips mentioned above for the best results.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the great features of this garlic pasta recipe is its flexibility in scaling. If you're entertaining or meal prepping, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. When scaling up, ensure you use a pot large enough for cooking the pasta and a skillet that can accommodate the increased volume without overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.

Also, keep in mind that as the quantity increases, you might need to adjust timing slightly. Cook the pasta in batches if necessary, and sauté garlic in a larger skillet to avoid burning. More pasta might absorb more oil, so be prepared to have additional olive oil and pasta water on hand to get the desired texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, linguine, or gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese (if used) is vegetarian-friendly.

→ What can I add for more protein?

You can easily throw in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic oil in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when ready to toss with pasta.