Are you a garlic lover looking for some new ways to spice up your pasta game? Look no further than Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, a classic Italian recipe that combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of garlic, olive oil, and sometimes, red pepper flakes. This iconic dish has been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries, and its versatility has inspired countless variations.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Spaghetti Aglio e Olio recipes that showcase the beauty of this beloved dish. From classic takes with fresh parsley to spicy twists with red pepper flakes, and from creamy additions with Parmesan cheese to unexpected combinations like roasted garlic and olive oil, there’s something for everyone in our collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your pasta dishes and add some serious garlic flair to your meals.
Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Fresh Parsley
This Italian staple is a masterclass in simplicity, highlighting the rich flavors of garlic, olive oil, and fresh parsley. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic-parsley mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and savory take on the classic Italian dish, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. This recipe adds a kick of heat from red pepper flakes, perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2-3 tablespoons red pepper flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and chili flakes.
6. Toss the spaghetti in the spicy oil mixture, seasoning with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Parmesan Cheese
A classic Italian recipe gets a creamy twist, featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a rich garlic and olive oil sauce, topped with shaved Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in olive oil and stir to combine with garlic. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If too thick, add a little more pasta cooking liquid.
6. Serve immediately, topped with shaved Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Lemon Zest and Herbs
A classic Italian recipe gets a bright twist with the addition of lemon zest, herbs, and garlic. This quick and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with garlic-lemon mixture until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
This classic Italian recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of garlic and olive oil, all enhanced by the deep richness of roasted garlic. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, and reserved pasta water. Cook over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with the garlic-oil sauce.
6. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
This classic Italian recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti, garlic, and olive oil with the salty kick of anchovies and crunchy texture of breadcrumbs. A harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (see note)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add chopped anchovies to the skillet and stir until dissolved into the oil. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic and oil mixture.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and aromatic take on traditional spaghetti, featuring garlic-infused olive oil, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (about 1/4 cup per serving)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook garlic slices over medium-low heat for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant. Be patient, as this step is crucial for the dish’s flavor.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Stir in reserved pasta cooking water, followed by chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the garlic-infused tomato sauce. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Mushrooms and Thyme
A classic Italian dish gets a savory twist with the addition of earthy mushrooms and fragrant thyme.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add the mushrooms and chopped thyme to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic-mushroom mixture.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Kale and Chili Flakes
A classic Italian recipe gets a spicy twist with the addition of kale and chili flakes, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish. This 15-minute meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with garlic and kale mixture.
5. Sprinkle chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Shrimp and Garlic Butter
This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and easy-to-make pasta recipe that combines the simplicity of aglio e olio (garlic and oil) with the richness of garlic butter and succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup garlic butter (see note)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and red pepper flakes to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste.
4. Add garlic butter to the skillet and stir to combine with the shrimp and garlic mixture.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti in the skillet with the shrimp and garlic butter sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Pancetta and Pecorino
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Roman cuisine, featuring the simplicity and elegance of just a few high-quality ingredients. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan with slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn.
4. Add reserved pasta water and olive oil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pancetta-garlic mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Artichokes and White Wine
A classic Italian recipe gets a flavorful twist by adding artichoke hearts and white wine to the traditional garlic and olive oil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 medium artichoke hearts, canned or fresh, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add artichoke hearts and white wine to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 2-3 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic-artichoke mixture, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Broccoli Rabe and Pine Nuts
This classic Italian recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and oil) with the pungency of broccoli rabe and the crunch of pine nuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly wilted.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet with garlic and broccoli rabe. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Stir in toasted pine nuts and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Capers and Black Olives
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Neapolitan cuisine, featuring the simplicity of garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Capers and Black Olives is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine garlic and olive oil over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until garlic is golden brown.
3. Add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with garlic and oil mixture.
6. Stir in capers and black olives. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Sausage and Caramelized Onions
This Italian-inspired dish combines the classic spaghetti aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and oil) with sweet caramelized onions and savory sausage. The result is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook sliced onions over low-medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with sausage and onion mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta
This classic Italian recipe gets a flavorful boost from the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and crumbly feta cheese. The result is a rich, savory sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine garlic and olive oil over medium heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until garlic is golden brown.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the tomato-garlic mixture.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach and Ricotta
This classic Italian dish is elevated by the addition of spinach and ricotta, creating a creamy and flavorful pasta experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 1 minute). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and spinach mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined with the pasta and sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Truffle Oil and Fresh Herbs
This classic Italian recipe is elevated by the rich flavors of truffle oil and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Savor the combination of garlic, olive oil, and tender pasta in this mouthwatering Spaghetti Aglio e Olio.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup truffle oil
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the truffle oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove garlic from skillet with a slotted spoon, leaving behind the infused oil.
4. Add olive oil to skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to skillet. Toss pasta in truffle-infused oil, seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 delicious Spaghetti Aglio e Olio recipes. This classic Italian dish combines spaghetti, garlic, and olive oil for a simple yet satisfying meal. From spicy and creamy variations to seafood-infused twists, there’s something for every palate. Try adding fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or roasted garlic for added depth of flavor. Or, get adventurous with ingredients like anchovies, kale, and truffle oil. Whether you’re a garlic lover or just looking for a new pasta recipe, these Spaghetti Aglio e Olio variations are sure to please.
