If you love shrimp, garlic, and a little bit of heat, this Juicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect dish for you.
With plump shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce, combined with spaghetti or linguine, and finished off with a tangy lemon juice drizzle, this pasta is full of bold flavors. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s quick, easy, and totally satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Juicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful balance of savory shrimp, rich butter, and zesty lemon.
The shrimp is perfectly seared, keeping all of its natural juices intact, while the garlic and red pepper flakes infuse the sauce with deep flavors and a little heat.
The pasta soaks up the garlic-butter sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley finishes off the dish perfectly. It’s a meal that’s as simple as it is delicious!
Ingredient Highlights
Shrimp: The large shrimp in this recipe are juicy and tender, perfectly complementing the buttery garlic sauce.
Garlic and Butter: The combination of butter and minced garlic creates the base of the sauce, making it rich and aromatic.
Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat to balance the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Lemon: Lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness and brings the dish to life.
Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy finish that elevates the whole dish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so make sure to cook it only for 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking will make it tough and rubbery.
Save Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is a key ingredient in adjusting the sauce consistency. It helps loosen the sauce and makes it stick to the pasta better.
Lemon Zest: For even more lemony goodness, feel free to add some fresh lemon zest to the sauce along with the juice. It will give an extra burst of citrus flavor.
How to Make Juicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
Once the butter is melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook for 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
Step 4: Combine
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
Add the lemon juice and toss the shrimp to coat in the garlic-butter sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Toss the pasta with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Serving Ideas
This Juicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect on its own or paired with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
For a more decadent touch, serve it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or pasta water to keep the sauce from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking. Pat the shrimp dry to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any long pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if you prefer a short pasta.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! If you love spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic-butter sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
With tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a zesty lemony kick, it’s a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a favorite.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sauté in olive oil over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp back to the skillet with lemon juice and toss. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water to coat.
- Toss with parsley and Parmesan. Serve with extra lemon wedges.
Notes
- Pasta Options: Substitute linguine with fettuccine, angel hair, or gluten-free pasta.
- Shrimp Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary for even searing.
- Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to taste or omit entirely for a milder version.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or sprinkle in some goat cheese for a creamy twist.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
