Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and crowd-pleasing meal, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is it! It’s the perfect blend of tender shrimp, garlicky goodness, and bright lemon flavors, all wrapped up in a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta. Plus, it’s ready in just 25 minutes! Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or whipping up something special for guests, this dish never fails to impress. And let’s be honest—the smell when this is in the oven is incredible! Want more easy, tasty recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for email updates and never miss a delicious moment.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Bursting with Flavor: The rich garlic sauce with a hint of lemon (or chicken broth) brings out the best in the shrimp, making every bite a burst of savory deliciousness.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in 25 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner that tastes gourmet.

Versatile: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it out for chicken or even a vegetarian alternative like roasted vegetables. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more (or less!) red pepper flakes.

Healthy and Light: With just a few simple ingredients, this pasta keeps it fresh and light without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

• 1 lb spaghetti or linguine: Feel free to use your favorite pasta; gluten-free varieties work well too!
• 1 lb shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: Divided for sautéing.
• 6 cloves garlic: Minced, because is there ever such a thing as too much garlic?
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Optional, but great for a little kick.
• 1 lemon: Juiced for a fresh, zesty touch.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley: Chopped for that finishing flourish.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, but adds a nice creamy, salty finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for sautéing shrimp and making the garlic sauce
• Tongs or a pasta fork for tossing everything together
• Zester (if you want to add a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor)

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package directions, typically about 8-10 minutes for al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and sauté them until they’re pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about a minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. (or chicken broth) and the lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Combine Everything

Now, return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Use tongs or a pasta fork to toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated in the garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the shrimp and pasta are heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if you’re using it. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Cook Shrimp Just Right: Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked, so make sure to cook them only until they turn pink and opaque.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley make a huge difference in flavor!
• Add Cream for Richness: For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream when simmering the garlic sauce. It adds a luscious texture without overpowering the bright flavors.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Pair this pasta with:

• A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
• For a lighter option, try roasted asparagus or a side of steamed broccoli.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem!

• Refrigerate: Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm it up in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish. Make sure to store the shrimp and pasta separately, as shrimp can become tough when reheated from frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the shrimp and sauce in advance and store them separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together and reheat in a skillet.

What can I substitute for shrimp?

If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try using cooked chicken, scallops, or a mix of roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not really, but if you’re sensitive to spice, you can skip the red pepper flakes. If you love heat, feel free to add more!

Conclusion: Garlic Shrimp Pasta – A Flavor-Packed, Easy Dinner

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a winner for so many reasons. It’s simple to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and delivers a savory, zesty punch of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat!

Craving more easy seafood dishes? Don’t miss out on these fantastic shrimp and seafood recipes:

• Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry in Garlic Sauce
• Creamy Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry
• Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster

Share your masterpiece! If you make this Garlic Shrimp Pasta, don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! I love seeing your creations. Follow along at The Flavor Vault Pinterest Board.

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