Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta

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I adore quick meals that take minimal effort yet deliver maximum flavor, and this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta is one of my all-time favorites. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a delicious dish that satisfies my cravings and fits perfectly into a busy schedule. The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil always fills the kitchen with warmth, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Plus, this dish is so versatile that I can easily customize it to suit what I have on hand.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:13:34.804Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. With only garlic and pasta as the base, I experimented by adding a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The vibrant flavors made my simple meal feel gourmet, and it quickly became a staple in my weekly meals.

What really sets this recipe apart is the technique of letting the garlic gently brown in olive oil, which infuses the pasta with a deep flavor. I love serving it with freshly grated parmesan; it’s the perfect touch that elevates this easy dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time perfect for busy weeknights
Robust garlic flavor complemented by fresh herbs
Versatile enough to add proteins or vegetables as desired

Understanding Garlic's Role

Garlic is the star ingredient in this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta. It brings a robust flavor to the dish that can elevate even the simplest meals. Sautéing the garlic until it's golden brown is crucial, as this process releases its natural oils and sweetness. If you notice the garlic starting to darken too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid a bitter taste that can detract from the dish's overall enjoyment.

For those new to cooking with garlic, slicing it thinly allows for quicker cooking and better flavor distribution. You could even try mincing the garlic if you prefer an even more intense flavor. Additionally, using fresh garlic will always yield a tastier outcome than pre-minced or powdered alternatives, making a noticeable difference in this pasta dish.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic pasta can be enjoyed on its own, but it also serves as a fantastic base for various proteins or vegetables. If you're looking to add protein, grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or canned chickpeas make excellent choices. For a veggie boost, consider adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed bell peppers in the last minute of cooking the pasta for a vibrant addition that complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.

When serving, I like to top the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, salty finish. However, for a vegan option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the olive oil and garlic, making it even more delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
4 cloves garlic, sliced
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for a delightful cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your quick and easy pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!

Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil, tossing to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a glossy finish. Season with salt and garnish with parsley and Parmesan before serving.

Enjoy your meal while it's hot and fresh!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp to make this dish heartier. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a delightful kick!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the garlic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, I recommend re-heating it in a skillet over low-medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out and ensure it warms evenly without getting rubbery.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to a month. Simply place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating tips mentioned earlier for optimal results. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.

Scaling the Recipe

The beauty of this pasta dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. If you need to serve more guests or simply want to have leftovers, scaling the recipe is straightforward. Just maintain the same ingredient ratios; for instance, if you're cooking for four, you can double the amount of spaghetti and garlic while adjusting the olive oil accordingly.

Conversely, if you want to prepare a smaller portion, you can easily make a half serving. For best results with less garlic, a general rule is to use one clove per 50g of pasta. Always taste as you go; the flavors can be adjusted slightly even while reducing quantities to ensure a delightful meal every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any short or long pasta.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh parsley?

While fresh parsley enhances the flavor and presentation, you can skip it if you don’t have any.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of olive oil.