Spaghetti aglio e olio is one of those timeless recipes that proves simplicity can be incredibly satisfying. Translated from Italian, the name means “spaghetti with garlic and oil,” and that’s essentially the heart of the dish. Originating from Naples, Italy, this meal has long been a staple in Italian households and is beloved across the globe for its bold flavors and minimal ingredients. It’s the kind of recipe that delivers on taste without requiring much time, effort, or an expensive grocery run. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or someone just learning your way around the kitchen, spaghetti aglio e olio is the kind of comforting meal that’s easy to make and always hits the spot.

What makes this version stand out is that it’s made in a slow cooker, turning a classic stovetop dish into an even more convenient option for busy days. Imagine tossing a few ingredients into your slow cooker in the afternoon and coming back a few hours later to find a flavorful pasta dinner waiting for you. It’s a hands-off approach that allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you take care of everything else on your to-do list. Whether you’re juggling work, errands, or family time, this slow cooker method ensures dinner won’t be another stressful chore. And the result? A silky, garlicky pasta that tastes like something you’d get at a cozy Italian bistro.

To serve this dish, you don’t need anything fancy. A simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm pasta. A slice of garlic bread on the side rounds out the meal perfectly, offering a buttery crunch to mop up any leftover oil and seasonings. If you’d like to add some protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp are great options. They absorb the garlic and olive oil flavors wonderfully without overpowering the dish. For those who enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the meal beautifully, lending a touch of elegance to even a casual weeknight.

Here’s how to make it: Start with 8 ounces of spaghetti, breaking it in half so it fits easily in your slow cooker. Add 1/4 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, 4 garlic cloves that you’ve thinly sliced, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. A pinch of salt brings the flavors together. Then pour in 2 cups of water—just enough to submerge the pasta. Cover and set your slow cooker to low. Let it cook for about 2 to 3 hours, giving it a stir every now and then to keep the pasta from sticking together. Once the spaghetti is tender, stir in 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you like, top it off with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.

This dish is incredibly versatile, and there are a number of ways to customize it depending on your preferences. Want to make it heartier? Add cooked chicken breast or shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The protein will warm through and soak up the garlicky oil without becoming overcooked. Prefer a bit more spice? Increase the red pepper flakes to suit your taste. If you or someone in your household is gluten-sensitive, simply swap out the traditional spaghetti for a gluten-free alternative. And for a bright, fresh finish, a squeeze of lemon juice over the top right before serving can really bring the whole dish to life.

Another great thing about spaghetti aglio e olio is that it’s an excellent pantry-friendly meal. You probably already have everything you need on hand—pasta, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. That means you can pull this dish together on a whim, which is perfect for those nights when you haven’t planned ahead but still want something satisfying. It also stores well. If you have leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently the next day. The flavors often intensify overnight, making the second serving just as delicious as the first.

This recipe is also a great starting point for creative cooks who like to experiment. You can stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes for a bit of tangy sweetness, or sprinkle in some toasted breadcrumbs for a little crunch. Even a handful of baby spinach added during the last 10 minutes of cooking will wilt down nicely and give the dish an added nutritional boost. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can tailor it to suit your mood, the season, or whatever you happen to have in your kitchen.

But above all, spaghetti aglio e olio is about comfort. It’s about the smell of garlic gently cooking in olive oil, the warmth of a bowl of pasta at the end of a long day, and the joy of a homemade meal that feels special without being complicated. It’s proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list or fancy techniques to make something truly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish brings people together with its simplicity and flavor.

So the next time you’re short on time but craving something delicious, remember this slow cooker spaghetti aglio e olio. It’s a foolproof way to bring a bit of Italy into your kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum comfort. Keep it simple or dress it up—either way, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Just a few ingredients, a little patience, and your slow cooker is all it takes to create a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.