Can I use another pasta shape instead of spaghetti?

Yes, linguine or fettuccine also work well since they hold the sauce nicely.

Is Parmesan cheese traditional in aglio e olio?

Traditionally no, but many home cooks add it after plating for extra flavor.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce the chili flakes or use half a fresh chili without seeds for milder heat.

Irresistible Garlic Chili Oil Spaghetti in 20 Minutes

Name: Irresistible Garlic Chili Oil Spaghetti in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: Spaghetti; Extra virgin olive oil; Garlic cloves, thinly sliced; Red chili flakes; Reserved pasta water; Fresh parsley stem; Fresh parsley leaves, chopped; Lemon zest; Parmesan cheese, grated

This garlic chili oil spaghetti (aka aglio e olio) is garlicky, spicy, and silky smooth. A quick Italian pasta dinner ready in just 20 minutes.

Irresistible Garlic Chili Oil Spaghetti in 20 Minutes 🍝🔥

Looking for a pasta dish that’s simple, bold, and ready in minutes? This garlic chili oil spaghetti (known as aglio e olio in Italian) is your new weeknight hero. Made with just a few pantry staples—garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and parsley—it delivers an irresistible balance of garlicky richness, spicy warmth, and silky smooth texture.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or whipping up a quick dinner for two, this pasta is guaranteed to satisfy without the fuss. 🙌

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💡

Quick & Easy – ready in just 20 minutes.
Flavor-packed – with garlic-infused olive oil and a kick of chili.
Customizable – adjust spice levels and add Parmesan or lemon zest to your taste.
Authentic Italian simplicity – perfect for weeknights or when you crave comfort food.

Key Ingredients 🛒

Spaghetti – al dente for the perfect bite.
Garlic – thinly sliced for that signature aroma.
Chili flakes – or fresh chili for adjustable heat.
Olive oil – high-quality extra virgin makes a difference.
Fresh parsley – adds freshness and color.
Optional toppings – lemon zest for brightness, Parmesan for richness.

How It Comes Together ⚡

Cook the pasta – salt your water generously and boil spaghetti until just al dente.
Infuse the oil – sauté garlic and parsley stem in olive oil until golden and fragrant.
Add spice – stir in chili flakes for a quick bloom of heat.
Create the sauce – whisk in pasta water to form a silky emulsion.
Toss & finish – combine spaghetti with the sauce, parsley, and adjust seasoning.

Plate immediately and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan or lemon zest if desired. ✨

Perfect Pairings 🍷

This pasta pairs beautifully with:

A crisp glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio.
A side of garlic bread for extra indulgence.
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Final Thoughts 💭

This garlic chili oil spaghetti proves that Italian cuisine shines through its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and less than half an hour in the kitchen, you’ll have a comforting, restaurant-worthy dish ready to enjoy.

👉 Save this recipe for your next quick weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something garlicky, spicy, and deeply satisfying.