Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with bright, fresh flavors and a touch of indulgence, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender, juicy shrimp with a garlic-infused buttery sauce and a hint of zesty lemon, it offers a perfect balance between comforting and elegant. The quick-cooking pasta soaked in that luscious sauce makes every bite irresistible, and it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe comes together beautifully with simple, essential ingredients that each play an important role. From the pasta that provides satisfying texture to the fresh parsley adding a pop of color, every element enhances the dish.

• 8 ounces of spaghetti or your choice of pasta: This creates the perfect base to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps gently cook the garlic and shrimp without overpowering the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star player adding pungent, aromatic warmth throughout the dish.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender, protein-packed seafood that cooks quickly and takes in all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick and depth to the sauce if you like a little heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all other flavors perfectly.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Adds acidity and an extra layer of flavor to create a succulent sauce.
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested: Brightens the dish with fresh citrus notes for a lively taste.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce with creamy silkiness.
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish to the pasta.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish: Adds a vibrant green color and fresh, herbal aroma.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti or preferred pasta until it reaches al dente—this ensures a pleasant, firm bite that holds up well once mixed with the sauce. Remember to reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining; it’s a handy trick to help marry your sauce and pasta later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your minced garlic. The moment it starts to release that intoxicating aroma, you’ll know you’re on the right track. Keep your heat moderate here to avoid burning the garlic because a burnt garlic taste would overpower the delicate shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer and sprinkle on the crushed red pepper flakes if using, along with salt and pepper. Cook them for about two minutes per side. You want each piece to turn that perfect pink and become opaque while still juicy and tender. Quickly remove the shrimp and set them aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Then stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. Allow this vibrant mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavors.

Step 5: Add Butter for Richness

Stir in the unsalted butter until it melts fully and incorporates into the sauce. This step transforms the liquid into a silky, luscious coating for the pasta and shrimp, enriching every forkful.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return your cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together so the sauce evenly coats the ingredients. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water; this helps achieve the ideal sauce consistency, making it wonderfully creamy without being heavy.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Parsley

Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Toss the dish once more to incorporate these final layers of flavor and fresh herbaceousness, ensuring every bite is a celebration of seasoning and texture.

Step 8: Season to Taste

Give it a taste test and adjust your seasoning as needed with a pinch of salt, cracked pepper, or a squeeze more lemon juice. This final tweak lets you personalize the dish to your preference.

Step 9: Serve with Style

Plate your Garlic Shrimp Pasta with an extra flourish of parsley and Parmesan cheese on top, inviting guests to dive into a dish that feels both homey and gourmet.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of green that brightens the visual appeal, while a sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory hit. For extra elegance, a thin lemon wedge on the side invites your guests to add more citrus zing if they desire.

Side Dishes

This pasta calls for something light and fresh for balance. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed asparagus pairs beautifully. Garlic bread is a classic companion, and the bread’s crunch contrasts delightfully with the delicate noodles and succulent shrimp.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve the Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. For a family-style feast, transfer to a large, warm serving platter. Adding a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds depth and a gorgeous shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers—which might be rare with this dish—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days, maintaining most of the fresh flavors and texture.

Freezing

While the shrimp pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if necessary. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Note that the pasta may become softer when reheated from frozen, so slightly undercook your pasta when initially making it if you plan to freeze.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly without drying out the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely and avoid excess water in the pan.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Spaghetti is classic, but feel free to experiment with linguine, angel hair, or even penne. Just consider the sauce’s texture—long pasta strands help capture the buttery garlic sauce beautifully.

Is it necessary to use white wine?

White wine adds a lovely depth and acidity, but chicken broth is an excellent non-alcoholic substitute that keeps the sauce flavorful and bright.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Skip the butter and Parmesan, and substitute with olive oil and nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. The garlic, lemon, and shrimp shine on their own!

Can I add vegetables to this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted bell peppers would add fresh color and nutrition without overwhelming the recipe’s simple charm.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it proves that delicious, gourmet-tasting food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and your table with smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly impressive it is—perfect for any day you want to treat yourself or loved ones.

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