Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you have a craving for something fresh, flavorful, and wonderfully comforting, you absolutely have to try this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe. This dish offers the perfect balance between tender, juicy shrimp and al dente pasta, all bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that sings with a hint of lemon and a touch of spice. The flavors come together in a way that feels both decadent and inviting, making every bite a celebration of simple yet unforgettable ingredients. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each bringing its own magic to the dish. The shrimp adds tenderness and protein, garlic infuses a rich aroma, and the Parmesan cheese contributes a delightful savory twist. Together, they create a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors that make this pasta truly irresistible.
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta for that classic, twirl-friendly experience.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed, they bring that succulent seafood goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing shrimp and enhancing flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps build the luscious sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for that punch of aromatic, savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle heat that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Brings acidity and moisture; wine adds a lovely depth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that savory finish and slight nuttiness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh herbaceous notes.
- Juice of half a lemon: Provides a zesty brightness that lifts all flavors.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling salted water and cooking your spaghetti or linguine until al dente—that perfect tender-but-firm texture. Don’t forget to set aside about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is a game changer for tying the sauce and pasta together beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque—overcooking can make shrimp tough, so keep an eye on them! Remove the shrimp and set them aside for the next step.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the garlic cook gently for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up all those tasty browned bits at the bottom—that’s where the flavor hides!
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over medium heat so the sauce coats every strand and the shrimp stay tender. This step brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Turn off the heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley. These final additions add richness, brightness, and a pop of fresh color, making your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe truly shine. Serve immediately to enjoy at its best.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves can instantly elevate your presentation and flavor. If you love a bit of texture and a touch of green, these garnishes add just the right finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is a classic companion too, soaking up the irresistible sauce and adding that toasty crunch everyone loves.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, twist the pasta into neat nests on each plate and place the shrimp artfully on top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a lemon wedge on the side invite diners to customize their taste, creating a vibrant and inviting plate that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors will mellow but remain delicious, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta without the lemon juice and parsley to maintain flavor integrity. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a little extra butter or olive oil can help revive the creamy texture.
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, which can affect the sauce’s consistency.
What type of white wine is best for this recipe?
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works wonderfully, offering bright acidity without overpowering the dish. If you prefer not to use wine, low-sodium chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
Can I make this pasta creamier?
Yes! For a richer, creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream when you pour in the wine or broth. It makes the dish silky and indulgent but still light enough to enjoy anytime.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick that enhances the garlic and lemon flavors without overwhelming the shrimp. You can always adjust the amount or skip them based on your heat preference.
Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Reserving pasta water is a fantastic trick for creating a smooth, cohesive sauce. The starch in the water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, ensuring every bite is flavorful and perfectly coated.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and impressively simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a guaranteed winner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Give it a try soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful Italian-American dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, tossed with al dente spaghetti, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe balances zest and richness with minimal ingredients and effortless stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to build flavor.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water and toss everything together over medium heat until well combined and heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve the garlic shrimp pasta immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream along with the white wine.
- You can use frozen shrimp; just thaw thoroughly and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Use fresh lemon juice at the end for the best bright flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
