Description
A beginner-friendly, 5-ingredient garlic pasta dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. This recipe uses simple pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and panko breadcrumbs to create a silky, flavorful sauce with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt (for pasta water and finishing)
- 1 cup reserved starchy pasta water
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, bring to a rolling boil, and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add pasta and cook until al dente, checking 1 minute early. Before draining, scoop out 1 cup of starchy pasta water and set aside.
- While pasta boils, heat a large skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly until light golden brown and nutty (2-3 minutes). Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 1/3 cup olive oil to the skillet along with sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until garlic is pale gold and fragrant. Do not let it burn.
- Transfer cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic oil. Add 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water and toss vigorously with tongs to emulsify the oil and water into a silky sauce. Add more pasta water if needed.
- Remove pan from heat. Toss in half of the toasted breadcrumbs. Plate the pasta and top with the remaining breadcrumbs. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not use jarred minced garlic as it burns faster and has a metallic taste. Save the starchy pasta water; it is essential for creating the sauce emulsion. Toasting the breadcrumbs adds necessary texture and flavor. If the pasta looks dry, add more pasta water. If the sauce is too oily, toss more vigorously with water.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 10
Keywords: garlic pasta, aglio e olio, easy dinner, 15 minute meals, vegetarian pasta, crispy breadcrumbs, beginner recipes, pasta water emulsion