15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; Salt, for pasta water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Everyday Collection

Quick and delicious, this 15-minute garlic shrimp pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party. With succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a garlic-infused sauce, it’s a dish that comes together in no time and is sure to impress!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:16:34.011Z

This delightful garlic shrimp pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a busy evening, it brings together fresh shrimp, garlic, and pasta in a harmonious blend that will have you coming back for more.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make, ready in just 15 minutes
Garlic and shrimp create a deliciously fragrant dish
Perfectly balanced with a hint of spice and zest

      

A Simple Yet Elegant Meal

This 15-minute garlic shrimp pasta is not only quick but also brings an air of elegance to your dining table. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone eager to dig in.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet yet is incredibly accessible. The al dente pasta provides a delightful texture that complements the tender shrimp, making each bite a joy.

Moreover, this dish is versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes, catering to your personal taste. It’s also a fantastic base for experimenting with additional ingredients like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even a splash of white wine for added depth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this garlic shrimp pasta can fit seamlessly into your plans. Its quick preparation time makes it ideal for those evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss. Just 15 minutes in the kitchen, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that tastes like it took much longer.

Hosting a dinner party? This dish can easily steal the spotlight. Pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine, and you’ll have a complete meal that’s both impressive and enjoyable. Guests will appreciate the effort that goes into creating such a lovely dish, while you’ll appreciate how little time it took to prepare.

Additionally, the bright flavors and vibrant presentation make it a fantastic choice for seasonal gatherings. Serve it in a large platter for everyone to share, encouraging a communal dining experience that enhances the enjoyment of your meal.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt, for pasta water

For the Shrimp

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

Combine all the ingredients to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Reduce heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to create a light sauce. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Storage and Reheating

This garlic shrimp pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to help revive the dish and prevent it from drying out.

For optimal flavor, avoid reheating in the microwave; instead, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. This method helps maintain the texture of the shrimp and pasta, ensuring your meal remains delicious even on the second day.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to savor every drop of the garlic-infused sauce.

For a more substantial meal, you might add steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the pasta mix. The added greens not only enhance the dish's nutritional profile but also contribute vibrant colors that make the meal visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and linguine are great options, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

→ What can I serve with garlic shrimp pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.