Spaghetti aglio e olio is the kind of dish that proves simple ingredients can create big flavors. With garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, this classic Italian pasta comes together in no time.
It’s a great option when you need a quick dinner but still crave something flavorful and satisfying.
Easy pasta recipe.
This dish also happens to be a perfect starting point if you’re learning how to cook spaghetti. It’s easy to master and pairs well with a variety of toppings, making it a go-to recipe when time is tight or pantry ingredients are all you have on hand.
If you’re in the mood for another classic pasta, try this simple yet flavorful cacio e pepe recipe.
Recipe Highlights
- Minimal Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry right now.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights.
- Full of Flavor: Garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes come together for a rich, aromatic sauce.
- Versatile Base: Add veggies, shrimp, or chicken for extra protein and variety.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: Classic pasta that soaks up the garlicky oil beautifully.
- Olive oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil brings out the best flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic slices infuse the oil with bold flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a touch of heat that balances the richness.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness and color. (Optional)
- Salt and Pepper: To season and balance the dish.
- Grated Parmesan (optional): For those who enjoy a cheesy finish.
* Need to print out this recipe? You’ll find a printable recipe card at the end of this post. Enjoy!
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- Skillet
- Spatula
How to make spaghetti aglio e olio
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté until golden and fragrant. Stir in the red pepper flakes.
Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper. Toss with fresh parsley and, if desired, finish with grated Parmesan.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy warm with your favorite sides.
What to serve with spaghetti aglio e olio
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful oil.
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Adds a pop of color and nutrients to your plate.
Storing and reheating leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil.
Freeze: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta can become mushy.
Helpful Tips
- Use Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is the base of the sauce, a good one makes a big difference.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent it from becoming bitter.
- Reserve Pasta Water: It helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Add Toppings: Try adding sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables for variety.
FAQs
Spaghetti aglio e olio is a traditional Italian pasta dish made with garlic (aglio), olive oil (olio), and red pepper flakes.
It’s a simple, flavorful recipe that’s quick to prepare and packed with rich garlic-infused goodness.
Spaghetti is the traditional choice, but linguine or angel hair also work well.
Cook the garlic over medium heat and stir frequently. Remove it from the heat as soon as it turns golden.
It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your liking.
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta pairs beautifully with this dish.
More quick dinners
- Ground turkey pasta
- Smoked sausage pasta
- Leftover turkey fried rice
- Check out all our Home Cooked Recipes
Will you try this easy pasta recipe?
Spaghetti aglio e olio is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something light yet flavorful.
With minimal ingredients and quick prep time, it’s a classic that never disappoints. Give it a try and explore how versatile this simple dish can be!
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Spaghetti aglio e olio recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- ½ cup olive oil
- 6-8 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Parsley and parmesan for garnish optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté until golden and fragrant. Stir in the red pepper flakes.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper. Toss with fresh parsley and, if desired, finish with grated Parmesan.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Burnt garlic can leave a bitter aftertaste, ruining the dish. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently. If the garlic starts browning too fast, take the skillet off the heat for a moment.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and increase if needed.
- Save more pasta water than you think you’ll use. The starchy water helps create a smooth sauce and prevents the pasta from drying out.
- Since olive oil is a key ingredient, choose extra-virgin olive oil with a bold flavor for the best taste.
- To enhance the flavor, consider topping the dish with grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, or toasted breadcrumbs.
Chichi says
Looking for a super quick pasta dinner? You will love this one.