If you love dishes that are bursting with flavor yet come together quickly, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp infused with garlicky goodness, tossed in a luscious buttery sauce, and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. Each bite offers a delightful combination of savory, aromatic, and slightly spicy notes that feel like a warm hug after a busy day. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests, making it a true kitchen winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Every item plays a key role, from the fresh shrimp that provide succulent protein to the garlic that delivers that signature, irresistible aroma. Together, they create a rich harmony of flavors and colors that make the dish as pleasing to the eyes as to the palate.
- 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed: Fresh or thawed shrimp ensure tender bites that soak up the sauce perfectly.
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles: A classic pasta choice that holds the garlicky sauce beautifully—adjust quantity based on how hungry your crew is!
- 6-8 garlic cloves, minced: The star flavor, garlic adds depth and warmth—feel free to tailor the amount to your garlic love level.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel that balances the garlic’s sharpness.
- Olive oil (about 3 drizzles): Enhances the cooking of the shrimp and garlic while adding fruity undertones.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbs like oregano and thyme, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe.
- Fresh ground pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity to every bite.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like an extra kick, a pinch goes a long way without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning both shrimp and pasta.
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil): Bright green bursts of freshness for garnish and flavor lift.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the spaghetti noodles until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. This step ensures your pasta has just the right chew, which perfectly complements the creamy and garlicky shrimp sauce. Once cooked, reserve a little pasta water to adjust the sauce later, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil along with the butter until melted and shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. This careful cooking prevents burning and maximizes flavor. Next, add the shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. If you like spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes here.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, toss the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat every strand beautifully. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for a minute or two over medium heat, so the pasta soaks up all that delicious garlicky goodness.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley or basil. These herbs add a fragrant burst of color and a fresh, slightly peppery edge that balances the buttery richness. A light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also bring a satisfying salty sharpness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus brings a lively contrast in texture and flavor. For bread lovers, warm garlic bread is a natural companion that helps soak up every last bit of the irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in warm shallow bowls or on rustic wooden platters. Adding lemon wedges alongside invites guests to brighten the dish with a spritz of fresh citrus. For a festive touch, garnish with edible flowers or layer the shrimp on top as a colorful crown.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, slightly undercook your pasta when making it fresh, since reheating will soften it further.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t the best option because pasta and shrimp can become rubbery and lose their texture upon thawing. If you must freeze, separate the shrimp and pasta, freeze in individual containers, and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This method preserves the flavors and prevents drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the shrimp tough.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can dilute the sauce.
What type of pasta works best for Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Spaghetti is the classic choice, but linguine, fettuccine, or even a short pasta like penne can work beautifully depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
While shrimp is the star protein, you can swap them for sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version that still captures the garlic-forward flavors.
How can I control the spiciness?
Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish, or increase them slightly if you like some heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the garlic butter sauce in advance and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp to save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy. Its vibrant garlic flavor and tender shrimp make it a satisfying meal any night of the week. I encourage you to dive into the kitchen and whip up this dish; it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner, combining tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Enhanced with Italian seasoning, fresh herbs, and a hint of red pepper flakes, it offers a delightful balance of savory and spicy notes that will satisfy seafood and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 6–8 garlic cloves, minced (to taste)
- Italian seasoning (to taste)
- Fresh ground pepper (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil, to taste)
Pasta
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles (adjust based on family size)
Cooking fats
- 1/4 cup butter
- Olive oil (about 3 drizzles)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.
- Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and a few drizzles of olive oil to the pan to prevent butter from burning. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Sauté Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, fresh ground pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep shrimp tender.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the shrimp and garlic butter. Toss together to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil over the pasta. Toss once more and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed when tossing pasta and shrimp.
- You can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like linguine or fettuccine.
- For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
