15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; Salt, for boiling water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Ideas

Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:46:35.002Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a delightful medley of flavors. It's perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Delicious combination of garlic, shrimp, and pasta
Perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous dinner party

      

A Flavorful Meal in Minutes

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be a challenge. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta offers a quick solution without sacrificing flavor or quality. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is accessible for any home cook.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The combination of garlic, fresh shrimp, and pasta creates a delightful medley of flavors that is sure to impress. Plus, the cooking technique ensures that the shrimp remain tender and juicy, while the pasta absorbs the aromatic garlic-infused oil for a truly satisfying meal.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the great aspects of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, swap out spaghetti for your favorite type of pasta, like fettuccine or penne, to create a new spin on the dish.

Additionally, feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition and color. A bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top can also elevate the dish and provide a rich, savory finish. The possibilities are endless, making it a fantastic option for both busy weeknights and spontaneous gatherings.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

When serving this Garlic Shrimp Pasta, consider pairing it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette can serve as a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta.

For a beverage, a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can add a delightful touch. This way, you can enjoy a well-rounded dining experience that impresses your family or guests.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt, for boiling water

For the Garlic Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Enjoy your meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Once the shrimp are cooked, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding lemon juice and chopped parsley. Mix well and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and quick garlic shrimp pasta!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, it's crucial to avoid overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly and turn from translucent to opaque in just a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them, removing them from the heat as soon as they turn pink to maintain their tenderness.

Using fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you're using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the dish's flavor and texture. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to enhance the sear and flavor.

Meal Prep Ideas

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta can be a great candidate for meal prep. Prepare the pasta and garlic shrimp in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet and toss them with the pasta for a quick meal.

You can also pre-chop your garlic and parsley ahead of time, making the cooking process even faster. This is especially helpful for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Just remember to keep everything in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for pasta?

You can use zucchini noodles or any other low-carb option.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic shrimp ahead and reheat when ready to serve.