There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of garlic shrimp pasta. I remember the first time I concocted this dish; the aroma of sautéed garlic filling my kitchen felt like a warm hug. Easy garlic shrimp pasta is not just a meal; it’s a way to share love and warmth with family or impress friends with minimal effort. This recipe is quick, packed with flavor, and makes for a perfect dinner any night of the week.
What makes this dish special is the delicious balance of garlic, shrimp, and the rich creaminess of parmesan cheese, all enveloped in al dente spaghetti. It’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Why you’ll love easy garlic shrimp pasta
- Quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavors that everyone will enjoy
- Requires minimal kitchen equipment and cleanup
- A go-to dish that’s endlessly customizable
- Deliciously satisfying and filling without being heavy
What ingredients do I need for easy garlic shrimp pasta?
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Spaghetti can be substituted with linguine or fettuccine.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw if frozen.
- Swap parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Red pepper flakes add heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
How do I make easy garlic shrimp pasta step-by-step?
Begin by boiling water for the spaghetti while prepping the shrimp and garlic. Combine the pasta and other ingredients in a skillet for a quick, delicious finish. In no time, you’ll have a meal that’s both simple and delectable.
- Boil a large pot of salted water, then cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink, then remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat and add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, then return the shrimp and add the cooked spaghetti.
- Toss everything together with parmesan, lemon juice, and parsley. Stir over low heat until well combined and glossy.
- Serve hot with extra parmesan and parsley.
Pro Tip: Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and just opaque for the perfect texture.
How should I serve it?
Serve your garlic shrimp pasta hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. You can also serve it with freshly baked garlic bread for a comforting touch.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
You can prepare easy garlic shrimp pasta in advance by cooking the pasta and shrimp separately, then storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen it up.
How do I fix common issues?
If your pasta turns out dry, try adding a bit more reserved pasta water or olive oil when tossing the dish. For bland flavors, ensure you’ve seasoned the shrimp well and consider adding more lemon juice or garlic. If the shrimp are overcooked, they may be tough, so keep an eye on them while they cook.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to experiment with your garlic shrimp pasta! Adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish and add color. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try sautéing some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. You can also replace shrimp with other proteins like chicken or scallops.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just remember to thaw them before cooking for even results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add freshly chopped chili peppers to the garlic while it cooks.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use whole wheat spaghetti and substitute butter with olive oil or a light cooking spray for a healthier version.
Easy garlic shrimp pasta is not only a dish that pleases the palate but also warms the heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.
Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling water for the spaghetti.
- While the water is boiling, prepare the shrimp and mince the garlic.
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink, then remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat and add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, then return the shrimp and add the cooked spaghetti.
- Toss everything together with parmesan, lemon juice, and parsley. Stir over low heat until well combined and glossy.
- Serve hot with extra parmesan and parsley.