Garlic Shrimp Pasta is that rare dinner that wows every time yet comes together in just about 25 minutes. Each twirl of pasta brings together juicy, garlicky shrimp, a buttery-lemon sauce, and the bright herbal kiss of fresh parsley. It’s the ultimate weeknight rescue or impromptu dinner-party hero. The real magic? You get all that restaurant flavor and elegance with just a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Garlic Shrimp Pasta truly lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient has a purpose, whether it’s building the rich, zesty sauce or making those shrimp really sing. Here’s what you’ll need and why you don’t want to swap anything out unless absolutely necessary!
- Spaghetti or linguine (12 oz): The pasta is your foundation—choose a shape that holds sauce well and can be swirled around your fork with ease.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp bring sweet, briny, and meaty bites to every mouthful.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): This is crucial for that gorgeously silky sauce that clings to every noodle.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds robust flavor and helps the butter emulsify instead of burning.
- Garlic, minced (6 cloves): The star of the show, infusing each bite with warmth and depth.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Offers a gentle kick for those who like a little extra excitement.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Wine gives a bright note and deglazes the pan, but broth works if you prefer.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Lifts the whole dish with citrusy zing—don’t skip the fresh lemon!
- Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup): Adds color and a burst of fresh, herby flavor right at the end.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To make all the flavors pop—season boldly, but taste as you go.
- Freshly grated Parmesan for serving (optional): Bonus richness and a touch of salty umami if you’re in the mood.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then drop in your spaghetti or linguine. Cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before you drain – that starchy liquid is the secret to luscious sauce! Once drained, set the pasta aside and keep it ready for tossing at the end.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil together. Once they’ve melted and mingled into a glossy puddle, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about one minute, just until fragrant—don’t let the garlic brown, or it will turn bitter.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Scatter your shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Season them generously with salt and black pepper. Let them cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn perfectly pink and opaque. Don’t overcook! Scoop the shrimp out onto a plate and keep them warm while you build the sauce.
Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up every bit of garlicky goodness stuck to the bottom. Let that bubble and simmer for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly as the alcohol cooks off and the flavors concentrate. Now squeeze in that fresh lemon juice—it brightens everything up.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Return the drained pasta and cooked shrimp to the skillet. Use tongs to toss them all together, letting the sauce seep into every crevice. As you toss, drizzle in reserved pasta water a little at a time, just until you reach your preferred level of sauciness. Finally, shower the whole pan with fresh chopped parsley, taste, adjust the salt and pepper, and you’re ready to serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta piping hot. Parmesan on top is always a good idea!
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic and gives the dish a beautiful pop of green. If you love a richer, savory note, finish with clouds of freshly grated Parmesan. Add a twist of freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of extra lemon juice for even more brightness.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette is the perfect companion to Garlic Shrimp Pasta, cutting through the richness and adding crunch. Oven-roasted vegetables or garlicky sautéed spinach are also excellent matches. And of course, some warm, crusty Italian bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner-party twist, use tongs to twirl the pasta into elegant nests on each plate, topping each mound with a few shrimp and a drizzle of sauce. You can also serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta family-style in a big, shallow platter for everyone to help themselves. Want to really wow your guests? Add a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers for a pro finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld and intensify, making it still delicious for lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
While pasta dishes with shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooled Garlic Shrimp Pasta in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. For best texture, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the shrimp so they stay tender. Microwaving works in a pinch but may toughen the shrimp if overheated.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp are often flash-frozen at peak freshness, making them a convenient and flavorful option for Garlic Shrimp Pasta.
What kind of pasta is best?
Spaghetti or linguine is classic and holds the sauce beautifully, but you can use fettuccine, angel hair, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. The key is to cook it just to al dente for the best texture.
Can I make this dish without wine?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for the wine if you prefer not to use alcohol. The broth brings body and flavor, though the wine will add a bit more complexity if you have it on hand.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Shrimp cook rapidly, so keep an eye on them—they only need 1–2 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp get rubbery, so timing is key!
What other add-ins work well in Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or asparagus tips are all fantastic. Just toss them in the skillet after the shrimp, sauté for a minute or two, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe. The extra veggies add color, freshness, and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s both impressive and stress-free, Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your answer. Just a few fresh ingredients and a handful of minutes stand between you and a restaurant-worthy dinner. Gather your friends and family, and treat yourself to a little burst of flavor magic tonight!
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Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe that is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp, garlic, and a hint of lemon tossed with pasta create a satisfying dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes. Add shrimp, cook until pink, then set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Deglaze the pan with wine or broth, add lemon juice. Return pasta and shrimp to the skillet, toss to combine.
- Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp.
- Enhance with cherry tomatoes or spinach.
- Consider gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
