Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you crave a dish that combines the sweetness of perfectly cooked shrimp with the comforting embrace of al dente pasta, you’re in for a real treat. This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is bursting with bold flavors from garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, brightened by fresh lemon juice and parsley, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings restaurant-quality deliciousness right to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the rich butter that creates a luscious sauce to the fresh parsley that adds a pop of green, these staples are simple yet essential.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The perfect base to soak up all the garlicky goodness of the sauce.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender and juicy, shrimp cook quickly and bring a delicious seafood sweetness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp evenly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Releases intense aroma and sharp, savory flavor when sautéed.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat that balances the richness.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and infuses a subtle depth of flavor.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus tang.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional): Adds a creamy, savory finish if you like a little cheesy indulgence.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means the pasta should be tender yet still firm to the bite. Once done, drain the pasta but remember to save about half a cup of the pasta water – this starchy liquid will help us loosen the sauce later, creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to every strand.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté gently for just about one minute. You want the garlic to release its wonderful fragrance and soften without turning brown, which could give a bitter taste.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Now, it’s time to add those lovely shrimp to the pan. Season them with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a delightful pink and become opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to keep them tender and juicy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with the juice of half a lemon. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this is where a lot of the magic happens. Let the liquid simmer for around 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce with Butter
Stir in the remaining butter, stirring continuously until it melts and the sauce turns smooth and glossy. This step enriches the sauce, giving it a luxurious mouthfeel that makes every bite so satisfying.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the spaghetti. Toss everything together gently, and if the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This helps the sauce cling perfectly to both the shrimp and pasta.
Step 7: Add Fresh Parsley and Season
Finish by stirring in the chopped parsley, which brings freshness and a pop of green to the dish. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is now ready to be served!
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. You can also add a few lemon wedges on the side to give guests the option to add a little more bright citrus zing if they desire.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread for dipping into the luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli are also excellent companions, adding both nutrition and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, consider serving the Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. You can also plate the shrimp on top for a more elegant look, or even toss in cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness, and if you can, keep the pasta and shrimp separate to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Freezing
While the pasta tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the shrimp tender and flavorful.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving on high heat as this can toughen the shrimp and make the pasta sticky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can interfere with sautéing.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti is classic here because it twirls nicely with the shrimp and sauce, but linguine or fettuccine also work great if you prefer a wider noodle.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?
Not at all. Chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute that still adds depth and moisture to the sauce without the wine’s acidity.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a more pronounced kick. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate shrimp flavor.
How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Keep a close eye on them and cook for just a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery and tough.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser: fast, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. I love how easily the ingredients come together to create something so satisfying, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes your new go-to dinner everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta that combines succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter with perfectly cooked spaghetti, tossed in a light white wine and lemon sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
- Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Deglaze and simmer sauce: Pour the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
- Add parsley and season: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute dry white wine with chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; add more or less depending on your preferred spice level.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor; frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch but can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
