15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Favorites

A quick and delicious pasta dish featuring succulent garlic shrimp, perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:58:34.549Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner. With its fresh ingredients and quick cooking time, you'll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful garlic sauce
Perfectly paired with al dente pasta for a satisfying meal

      

Perfect for Busy Nights

When time is of the essence, but you still want a delicious home-cooked meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to recipe. With its quick prep and cooking time, you can have a plateful of flavorful goodness ready in no time. This dish is not only a time-saver but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests without the hassle.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It uses fresh ingredients that come together harmoniously, creating a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. You'll find that once you master this quick pasta, it will become a staple in your weeknight rotation.

A Flavorful Garlic Sauce

The garlic sauce in this recipe is what truly elevates the dish. Sautéed garlic combined with a hint of red pepper flakes creates a robust flavor profile that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. This sauce is not only aromatic but also provides a delightful zest to the dish, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of garlic or red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. For those who prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. This recipe is flexible and can easily be tailored to your liking.

Nutritional Benefits

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just quick and delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, low in calories and high in essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. When paired with whole grain spaghetti, you get the added benefit of fiber, which is great for digestion and helps keep you feeling full.

Additionally, the inclusion of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making it a wholesome choice for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting to cook.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling 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-high heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Enjoy your quick and delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta!

Tips for Success

To ensure your shrimp cook perfectly, make sure they are of uniform size. This will help them cook evenly and prevent some from being overcooked while others are undercooked. If you're using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for optimal texture and flavor.

When cooking the pasta, remember to salt the boiling water generously. This step enhances the flavor of the pasta and prevents it from tasting bland. A well-seasoned pasta will absorb the delicious garlic sauce better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal that is sure to impress. The crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic sauce, making it a delightful addition to your dining experience.

For a refreshing contrast, consider pairing this dish with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the lemon will enhance the flavors of the pasta and shrimp while adding a lightness to your meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help revive the sauce.

Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to rubbery shrimp and overcooked pasta. By reheating on the stove, you can achieve a freshly cooked taste, ensuring that your Garlic Shrimp Pasta is just as delightful the second time around.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What other pasta can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread would pair perfectly.