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The Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti

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Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti is a quick and flavorful seafood pasta recipe made with juicy shrimp, tender spaghetti, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Finished with fresh parsley, lemon, and Parmesan cheese, this easy shrimp spaghetti recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or elegant family meals ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • ½ to 1 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
  • Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
  • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • 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.
  • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in the lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water.
  • Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  • Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
  • Add lemon zest, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
  • Toss everything together, adding more pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
  • Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for the boldest flavor.Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.Reserved pasta water helps create a smooth, silky sauce.Add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.