The Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Packed with rich garlic butter flavor
• Simple ingredients with impressive results
• Perfect balance of seafood and pasta
• Easy to customize with vegetables or spice
• Great for casual dinners or entertaining guests
• Light yet satisfying meal option

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• spaghetti
• large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• olive oil
• butter
• garlic cloves, minced
• lemon juice
• lemon zest
• red pepper flakes
• fresh parsley, chopped
• grated Parmesan cheese
• salt
• black pepper
• reserved pasta water

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
2. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the shrimp and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water.
7. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
9. Add lemon zest, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
10. Toss everything together, adding more pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
11. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add cherry tomatoes for a fresh burst of sweetness.
• Stir in spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if preferred.
• Make it creamy with a splash of heavy cream.
• Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken.
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.

Freezing is not recommended, as the shrimp can become rubbery after thawing and reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What size shrimp works best?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal because they stay tender and juicy.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter dish.

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque with a slightly curled shape.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, linguini, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be delicious the next day.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach, asparagus, broccoli, or tomatoes are excellent additions.

Why should I reserve pasta water?

Pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, replace the butter with additional olive oil and omit the Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti is a simple and delicious pasta recipe that combines juicy shrimp, savory garlic, and perfectly cooked spaghetti into one satisfying dish. With its fresh flavors and quick preparation time, it’s an easy meal that feels elegant enough for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

---

Print