Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti with Red Pepper Flakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is loaded with flavor but made from pantry staples, making it both accessible and budget-friendly. The combination of garlic sautéed in olive oil, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and generous parmesan creates a rich, satisfying dish without the need for a heavy sauce. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for when you want something delicious without the effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• Olive oil
• Fresh garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Reserved pasta water
• Optional: chopped parsley, lemon zest, or extra cheese for topping

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sliced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
4. Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to combine and loosen the sauce.
6. Remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and coats the pasta. Add more pasta water as needed for creaminess.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan, parsley, or lemon zest if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Mix in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for protein.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
• Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness.
• Stir in a pat of butter for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the pasta and cheese may change.

FAQs

Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and offers more flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is adjustable—add more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

What kind of garlic works best?

Fresh garlic gives the best flavor—avoid garlic powder in this recipe.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, but it will lose the creamy, savory depth. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan substitute.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your parmesan is vegetarian-friendly (some are made with animal rennet).

What pasta shape works best?

Spaghetti is classic, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work well too.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely—try broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie boost.

How can I make it creamier?

Use a little pasta water and stir thoroughly with the cheese, or add a splash of cream.

Will the garlic burn easily?

Yes, so sauté it gently and keep the heat moderate to avoid bitterness.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just scale the ingredients accordingly and use a large enough skillet to toss the pasta evenly.

Conclusion

Parmesan garlic spaghetti with red pepper flakes is a quick, flavorful pasta dish that proves simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. With bold garlic, a touch of heat, and melty parmesan, this meal is a go-to for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving comfort food with a little kick. Fast, flexible, and full of flavor—it’s a classic you’ll come back to again and again.

Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti with Red Pepper Flakes

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A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring golden sautéed garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and rich Parmesan cheese, tossed with al dente spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting, no-fuss dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 20–25 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
• Optional toppings: chopped parsley, lemon zest, extra Parmesan

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Do not let it burn.
4. Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and the pasta is evenly coated, adding more pasta water as needed for creaminess.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, lemon zest, or extra cheese if desired.

Notes

• Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Add sautéed veggies or protein like shrimp or grilled chicken for a fuller meal.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 15mg