Spicy Spaghetti in 15 Minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Spaghetti is bold, garlicky, and packed with heat, making it the perfect quick and easy pasta dish for spice lovers. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal effort!

✔ Fast & Easy: Done in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Spicy & Flavorful: A fiery kick from red pepper flakes and chili.
✔ Versatile: Add your favorite protein or veggies for variety.
✔ One-Pan Sauce: Minimal cleanup with a bold, garlicky tomato-based sauce.

Ingredients

For 2-3 servings, you’ll need:

8 oz spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup crushed tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Sauce

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté garlic, red pepper flakes, and chili for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat.
Pour in a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Mix in Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Serve hot with extra Parmesan and chili flakes on top.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on ingredients used.)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Sodium: 420mg

Tips & Tricks for the Best Spicy Spaghetti

✔ Control the Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes and chili to your spice preference.
✔ Add Protein: Toss in shrimp, chicken, or ground turkey for a hearty meal.
✔ For Extra Flavor: Use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular crushed tomatoes.
✔ Make It Vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.