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: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love how quickly this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta comes together, making it my go-to for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish bursts with flavor thanks to the fragrant garlic and a hint of red pepper. In under 20 minutes, I can create a satisfying meal that's perfect for dinner or a light lunch. Plus, it’s so adaptable; I often toss in whatever vegetables I have on hand. It’s simple, quick, and delicious—just the way I like it!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:25:34.804Z

When I first made this garlic pasta, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so delicious. I tested various garlic amounts and finally settled on just the right amount to ensure the flavor shines without overpowering the dish. A hint of red pepper flakes adds just the perfect kick without being too spicy.

One of my favorite aspects is how versatile this recipe is. I often throw in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes at the end to add color and nutrition. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies, and the pasta turns out beautifully every time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation without compromising on flavor
Garlic aroma filling your kitchen warms the heart
Perfectly adaptable to suit your pantry’s contents

      

Mastering Garlic Oil

The key to this dish lies in the garlic oil. Heating the oil to medium is crucial; if it’s too low, the garlic may not release its full aroma, and if too high, it risks burning. You want to sauté the minced garlic until it's just golden and fragrant, usually around 2-3 minutes. The ideal garlic should become a light golden hue, which indicates it’s ready to infuse your pasta with flavor without turning bitter.

When adding red pepper flakes, consider them to be your flavor dynamo; a little goes a long way. If you prefer a milder taste, start with just an eighth of a teaspoon and sauté with the garlic. For a more prominent kick, feel free to increase the dosage. This allows you to tailor your garlic pasta’s spice levels to suit your palate. Remember that the heat from the pan will continue to cook the flakes when removed from the stovetop.

Ingredient Flexibility

One of the beauties of this Quick & Easy Garlic Pasta is its adaptability. While spaghetti and linguine are classic choices, you can substitute with any long pasta like fettuccine or even whole wheat or gluten-free options. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Fresh seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can also be tossed in during the last couple of minutes of pasta cooking to brighten up the dish and add nutrition.

If you’re short on fresh parsley for garnish, consider using other herbs like basil or even arugula for a peppery bite. The grated Parmesan cheese, while optional, performs a dual role; it enhances the umami flavor and contributes creaminess to the dish. For a dairy-free or vegan version, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to maintain that rich, savory touch.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

These basic ingredients will create a delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create 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, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Prepare the Garlic Oil

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Combine and Serve

Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water. Add the hot pasta to the skillet with garlic oil, mixing well. If necessary, add a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.

Season with salt and top with fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your quick and flavorful pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the entire dish beautifully!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to prevent it from drying out. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.

For meal prep, you can cook the pasta a few days ahead and toss it in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Prepare the garlic oil and keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Simply warm it up before combining with the cooked pasta for an incredibly quick meal solution during your busy weeknights.

Scaling and Serving Ideas

This recipe easily scales for larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the ingredients, but do note that you might need to cook the pasta in batches to keep the texture perfect. You can also keep a larger volume of garlic oil ready to accommodate the increased amount of pasta and create a consistently flavorful dish.

Think outside the bowl; this garlic pasta can serve as a splendid base for proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, allowing you to build a more substantial meal. For a more decadent twist, try adding a splash of white wine to the garlic oil for depth and complexity before tossing in the pasta. These variations not only elevate its flavor but also transform it into a versatile dish for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just ensure to follow the package instructions for cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a few minutes.

→ Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased quantities.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.