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; 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 fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Rapid Kitchen

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

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:34:34.505Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to recipe for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with fresh garlic flavor and tender shrimp.
A one-pot dish that minimizes cleanup.

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

When you're juggling a busy schedule, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be challenging. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the answer to your weekday woes. With a prep and cook time of just 15 minutes, you can serve a delicious, gourmet meal without the fuss. This recipe ensures that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a tasty dinner with your loved ones.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Just a few ingredients come together to create a flavorful meal that feels indulgent. With fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a hint of lemon, this pasta dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the shrimp. When cooked correctly, shrimp become tender and juicy, making them a perfect protein choice for pasta. Combined with the robust flavor of garlic and a kick from red pepper flakes, each bite bursts with flavor. The addition of parsley not only enhances the taste but also adds a fresh, vibrant color to the dish.

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor. Fresh garlic provides a pungent aroma that elevates the entire dish, while the brightness of lemon juice cuts through the richness of the olive oil and shrimp. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that makes this pasta irresistible.

One-Pot Wonder

One of the highlights of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is that it’s a one-pot meal. This means less cleanup for you! Cooking everything in the same pot not only simplifies the process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After enjoying your meal, you’ll appreciate how easy it was to make and how little effort went into cleaning up afterward.

To maximize flavor, be sure to toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and garlic in the same pot. This way, the spaghetti absorbs the delicious garlic-infused oil, ensuring that every strand is coated in flavor. It’s a simple technique that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

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 fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to cook!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and red pepper flakes; season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the shrimp. Toss to combine, then add lemon juice and parsley. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The crunchy texture of garlic bread complements the softness of the pasta, while a crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast. Pairing this dish with a chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, can also elevate your meal, making it feel more special.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This adds a savory depth to the dish and makes it even more satisfying. Don't forget to garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep the pasta from drying out. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can also be a great meal prep option. You can cook the shrimp and garlic in advance and store them separately from the pasta. Just combine everything when you're ready to serve for a quick meal any day of the week.

Customization Ideas

The versatility of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta allows for numerous customization options. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider tossing in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. These additions not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add beautiful color and texture to the dish.

For a different flavor twist, try incorporating a splash of white wine while sautéing the shrimp. This will create a richer sauce, making the dish even more delectable. You can also substitute the shrimp with your choice of protein, such as chicken or scallops, to suit your preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish without garlic?

Garlic is a key ingredient for flavor, but you can omit it if necessary.