Name: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp salt plus more for pasta water; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional; 1/4 cup reserved pasta water as needed

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is one of those timeless dishes that proves simple ingredients can create something deeply satisfying. With just garlic, olive oil, pasta, and a hint of heat, this Italian classic turns pantry staples into a comforting bowl that feels both rustic and elegant. The aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like a cozy trattoria.

What makes this dish so special is how quickly it comes together while still delivering bold flavor. It is perfect for busy weeknights, late night cravings, or anytime you want something warm and comforting without a long prep. Every forkful is coated in silky garlic infused oil that clings beautifully to tender spaghetti.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This dish is quick, affordable, and incredibly flavorful without needing complicated steps. It relies on technique rather than a long list of ingredients, which means anyone can master it. The balance of garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes creates a savory warmth that feels indulgent but still light. It is also endlessly customizable if you want to add herbs, cheese, or protein.

What Type of Olive Oil Works Best for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?

Because olive oil is the backbone of this recipe, quality matters. A good extra virgin olive oil gives the sauce depth and a slightly peppery finish that complements the garlic. Avoid oils with overly bitter notes and choose something smooth and fragrant so the pasta tastes rich without feeling heavy.

Ingredients for the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

The beauty of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is how a few simple ingredients come together to create something bold and comforting. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor and texture.

Spaghetti provides the base that carries the sauce and holds onto the garlic infused oil.
Garlic is the star that delivers the signature aroma and savory depth.
Olive oil creates the silky coating that binds everything together.
Red pepper flakes add gentle heat that balances the richness.
Parsley brightens the dish and adds freshness.
Salt enhances every ingredient and seasons the pasta water.
Black pepper adds a subtle sharp finish.
Parmesan cheese gives optional salty richness when sprinkled on top.

How To Make the Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining so you can adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Infuse the Oil

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add thinly sliced garlic. Let it gently sizzle until fragrant and lightly golden without browning too much.

Step 3: Add Heat and Seasoning

Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and a pinch of black pepper so the oil absorbs their flavor.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta

Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet and toss well so every strand is coated. Splash in a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Stir in chopped parsley and taste for salt. Finish with grated Parmesan if you like a richer finish.

Serving and Storing Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is best served immediately while the oil is glossy and the pasta is perfectly tender. This recipe comfortably feeds about 4 people as a main dish or up to 6 as a side. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back the silky texture.

What to Serve With Spaghetti Aglio e Olio?

Garlic Bread

Warm garlic bread adds crunch and extra garlicky flavor that pairs naturally with the pasta.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers add color and balance.

Grilled Chicken

Simple grilled chicken turns this dish into a heartier meal.

Shrimp Scampi Style Shrimp

Garlicky shrimp echoes the flavors already in the pasta.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide freshness and texture.

Lemon Roasted Broccoli

A hint of citrus brightens the richness of the olive oil.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love comforting pasta dishes like this one, you might enjoy these favorites:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta https://janetdishes.com/creamy-tomato-spinach-pasta/ offers a rich sauce balanced with fresh greens.

One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta https://janetdishes.com/one-pan-garlic-and-herb-pasta/ keeps things simple while delivering bold flavor.

Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta https://janetdishes.com/creamy-cajun-sausage-pasta/ brings smoky spice and creamy texture together.

Tuscan Chicken Pasta https://janetdishes.com/tuscan-chicken-pasta/ combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce.

Explore even more recipe inspiration on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/janetdishesrecipes/ where Janet Dishes shares daily favorites.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra chili flakes or keep it mild? Did you finish with cheese or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go to for everyday cooking inspiration https://www.pinterest.com/janetdishesrecipes/.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio proves that simple cooking can still feel special. With just a handful of ingredients and a few careful steps, you get a dish that feels comforting, flavorful, and satisfying every time. Whether you serve it as a quick dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it always delivers that classic Italian warmth that never goes out of style.