Go Back
A collection of colorful ingredients for easy to make recipes

Speedy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This quick and easy Speedy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfect for a weeknight meal when you need something delicious on the table fast. With minimal ingredients, it's a flavorful and satisfying dish that comes together in under 20 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine (about 340g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4-5 garlic, minced cloves
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • 1/2 cup pasta water, reserved
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions; reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic and pour in the reserved pasta water.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing until the cheese melts and forms a light sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. This recipe is highly customizable; feel free to add cooked protein like chicken or shrimp, or additional vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for a more robust meal.