15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Highlighted under: Instant Meals

Enjoy a quick and delicious meal with this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta that is perfect for busy weeknights.

Theodora Blythe

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:04:34.703Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful and quick dish that combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a flavorful garlic sauce. Ideal for those evenings when time is short but flavor is a must!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
  • Packed with flavor from garlic and fresh herbs
  • A satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion

A Perfect Meal for Busy Nights

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook a delicious meal can be a challenge. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the answer to your culinary prayers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a satisfying dish that your entire family will love. Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or need a quick meal before heading out, this pasta is your go-to solution.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You don't need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something special. With the vibrant flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, this pasta dish feels indulgent without the fuss. It's an ideal recipe to keep in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Flavorful Ingredients That Shine

Each ingredient in this Garlic Shrimp Pasta plays a vital role in building flavor. The garlic provides a fragrant base that pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, while red pepper flakes add a subtle kick that elevates the dish. The fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing note that balances the richness of the olive oil and shrimp.

Using high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference in the final dish. Opt for fresh shrimp if possible, as they will provide the best texture and taste. The lemon juice added at the end ties all the flavors together, lending a brightness that makes every bite enjoyable.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic version features shrimp, feel free to experiment with other proteins like chicken or scallops. For a vegetarian option, consider adding seasonal vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, which can be sautéed alongside the garlic for an added nutritional boost.

You can also adjust the level of spice according to your preference. If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving. This recipe is meant to be a canvas for your creativity, so don't hesitate to make it your own!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

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

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and toss everything together. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp pasta!

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Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine before tossing in the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is delicious on its own, but it can be complemented with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread adds a comforting touch that everyone loves.

For an elevated dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a glass of white wine. A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio can enhance the flavors of the shrimp and garlic, making your meal feel extra special.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze it for later. To do so, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta type such as linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Enjoy a quick and delicious meal with this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta that is perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time5 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Theodora Blythe

Recipe Type: Instant Meals

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

  1. 8 oz spaghetti
  2. 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1/4 cup olive oil
  5. 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  6. Salt and pepper, to taste
  7. 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  8. Juice of 1 lemon

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 04

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and toss everything together. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine before tossing in the pasta.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 20g