15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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

Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Ideas

A quick and delicious garlic shrimp pasta that comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:55:35.749Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta. It's an ideal meal for those who want something quick yet satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the shrimp to shine, making it a favorite in our household.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Packed with flavor from fresh garlic and herbs
A satisfying meal that feels gourmet

      

A Quick and Delicious Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a homemade meal can feel like a daunting task. However, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a delicious, satisfying dinner on the table in a flash. Whether you're coming home from work or wrapping up a hectic day of errands, this recipe ensures you won't have to sacrifice flavor for convenience.

The beauty of this dish lies not just in its speed, but in its vibrant flavors. Fresh garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes elevate the shrimp, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss of a lengthy preparation process. It's a perfect way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is versatile enough to serve for various occasions. Whether it's a cozy family dinner, a romantic date night, or a casual gathering with friends, this dish adapts effortlessly to any setting. You can keep it casual by pairing it with a simple salad or elevate the dining experience with a glass of white wine and crusty bread. Regardless of the occasion, this pasta will surely impress your guests.

Moreover, it's an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a seafood dish that doesn't require extensive cooking skills. Even novice cooks can master this recipe with ease. The brief cooking time means you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen. It's a dish that brings people together, making it a staple for your weeknight dinners.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its flexibility. While the recipe calls for basic ingredients, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. If you're a fan of extra spice, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of garlic or omit the red pepper altogether.

You can also enhance the dish by incorporating seasonal vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can add both color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the shrimp. This not only boosts the meal's health factor but also introduces new textures and flavors, making each bite more delightful.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

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 Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine. Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley, and mix well. Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve the perfect al dente pasta, it's crucial to follow the package instructions closely, as cooking times can vary between brands. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together, and taste them a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to ensure they are cooked to your liking.

Once the pasta is done, remember to reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. This water can be added later to the sauce to help it cling to the pasta better, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying. It's a simple trick that elevates the overall texture and taste of your dish, making it even more enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated dining experience, consider serving this Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad. The crunch of fresh greens complements the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread allows you to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. Together, they create a well-rounded meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

If you're looking to add a finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese enhances the overall taste, making it even more irresistible. A few lemon wedges on the side can also be a nice touch, allowing everyone to brighten their plate with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their quality. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking.

For optimal flavor, try to consume the dish within a couple of days. The shrimp can sometimes lose their texture when reheated, so it's best to enjoy this meal fresh. However, if you find yourself with leftover pasta, it's still a delicious option for a quick lunch or dinner, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What type of pasta can I use?

You can use any pasta you like, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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