15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Ideas

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. With succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce, it comes together in no time.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:25:34.278Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Bursting with flavor from garlic and fresh herbs
A perfect weeknight dinner that feels gourmet

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

When you're pressed for time, preparing a satisfying meal can feel like a daunting task. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your answer to busy weeknights. Not only is it quick to make, but it also delivers on flavor and presentation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it was prepared in a restaurant kitchen.

The combination of shrimp and pasta is a classic that never gets old. This recipe puts a fresh spin on it with a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates the dish. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for both adults and kids alike. Plus, the vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing.

Healthy and Nutritious

Not only is this Garlic Shrimp Pasta quick and delicious, but it’s also a healthy choice. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and is low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Paired with whole grain spaghetti or linguine, you can enjoy a meal that is both filling and nutritious.

Additionally, the use of fresh parsley and lemon juice not only adds flavor but also boosts the vitamin content of the dish. Fresh herbs are packed with antioxidants, and lemon juice provides a good dose of vitamin C. This means you can indulge in this gourmet-style meal without any guilt.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're planning meals for the week, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an excellent choice. It can be easily scaled up to serve more people or to have leftovers for lunch the next day. The flavors actually develop even more after sitting, making it a great dish to enjoy the following day.

Simply store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water during reheating can help restore its creamy texture. Meal prepping has never been so easy and delicious!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt for boiling water

For the Garlic Shrimp

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking process!

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 a bit of pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley.

Serve

Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Serve immediately for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Pasta

For the best results, always use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but fresh shrimp will give you that tender, succulent texture you desire. Additionally, be sure to pat the shrimp dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear and avoid steaming them.

When it comes to garlic, using fresh cloves will elevate the flavor profile significantly. Minced garlic releases essential oils that provide a robust taste, while pre-minced garlic in jars often lacks that fresh punch. Don't shy away from using a generous amount of garlic in this dish!

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can introduce extra nutrients and color to your meal. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the shrimp for a delightful twist.

If you enjoy a bit of creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the garlic butter sauce. This will create a richer sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To make this meal even more special, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would complement the flavors of the pasta wonderfully, creating a well-rounded dinner experience.

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for an elevated dining experience. The acidity of the wine will balance the richness of the garlic butter sauce, making each bite of pasta even more enjoyable.

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 gluten-free pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.