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 your favorite pasta; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 60ml olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Home Cooking

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta when I need a delicious meal in a hurry. The combination of fresh garlic and olive oil creates a fragrant base that elevates the simple pasta to a whole new level. With just a few pantry staples, I can have dinner ready in no time, making this dish a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Just remember, the key is to sauté the garlic lightly so it doesn’t burn, allowing its flavor to infuse the oil beautifully.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:01:34.826Z

When I first tried making garlic pasta, I didn’t realize how wonderful the aroma would fill my kitchen. I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such flavorful results. I often like to finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness, which takes the dish to another level.

One tip that I learned is to reserve a little pasta cooking water before draining; it has great starchiness that helps bind the pasta and sauce. This simple technique ensures that the sauce adheres beautifully to the pasta, creating a creamy texture without needing to add cream!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy meals
Garlic aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting and delightful
Versatile base for adding your favorite veggies or proteins

The Importance of Garlic

Garlic is the star ingredient in this Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta recipe. Not only does it impart a beautiful aroma as it cooks, but it also develops a rich, sweet flavor when sautéed properly. To achieve this, I recommend using freshly minced garlic rather than pre-chopped alternatives to ensure the most vibrant taste. Lightly sautéing garlic releases its natural oils, creating a fragrant base for the pasta without overwhelming bitterness, which can occur if it’s cooked too long.

Start by heating your olive oil on medium heat—it's essential not to crank up the temperature too high. If the oil smokes, it can alter the flavor of the garlic. Sauté until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, usually around 1-2 minutes. If you notice browning or burning, remove the skillet from the heat immediately; burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s delicate balance.

Perfect Pasta Cooking

Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial for this dish’s success. For best results, aim for the 'al dente' stage—cooked but still firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions for timing, but keep in mind that thin pastas like spaghetti might only need 8-10 minutes in boiling water. Remember to salt your water generously; this enhances the pasta's flavor and ensures it absorbs the garlic-infused olive oil better.

Once cooked, don't forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid is a magic ingredient for adjusting the final sauce consistency. If you find your dish too dry after mixing in the garlic oil, adding a splash of the reserved water will loosen things up without diluting the flavor.

Customization Ideas

One of the beauties of this garlic pasta is its versatility. While it’s delicious as is, feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even red pepper flakes can elevate the dish in a matter of minutes. If you choose to add vegetables, consider cooking them in the same skillet after the garlic but before adding the pasta to ensure they're tender yet crisp.

If you're looking for a vegetarian protein boost, add chickpeas or toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Don't forget to adjust your seasoning to balance these additional flavors, and keep in mind that fresh herbs make a lovely finishing touch, bringing brightness to the dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Pasta

200g spaghetti or your favorite pasta

Sauce

4 cloves of garlic, minced
60ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Steps:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss with the garlic oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or sauté some spinach along with the garlic for a nutritious boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Pasta can be made ahead for those super busy nights. Prepare the garlic oil in advance, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. I often do this on Sundays, so I can whip up a quick meal from my pantry without sacrificing flavor during the week.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to the skillet and warm it gently over low heat, stirring frequently. This helps revive the garlic flavor and prevent the pasta from becoming too dry.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your garlic pasta, presentation can elevate the experience. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness of the olive oil. A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a creamy texture and enhances the umami flavor of the dish.

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. I love serving it with a side of arugula dressed in lemon and olive oil; the peppery greens contrast beautifully with the richness of the garlic pasta. Enjoy it with a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience any night of the week.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Should you find your garlic pasta lacking flavor, it might be due to under-seasoning. Start with sprinkling a little extra salt and pepper to enhance the overall tastes. Additionally, if your garlic didn’t release enough fragrance or flavor, it may not have been sautéed long enough to extract the essence; try not to rush this step in future attempts.

If your dish ends up too oily or greasy, a quick fix is to add a few more herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity that cuts through the richness. Balance is key, and sometimes minor adjustments can transform your garlic pasta into a meal to remember.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, just skip the Parmesan cheese, or use a vegan cheese substitute.

→ What else can I add for protein?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.