This Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta combines juicy shrimp with tasty garlic and a hint of lemon in a quick dish that’s perfect for dinner. It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!
I love how little time it takes to make this meal—just boil pasta, sauté shrimp, and mix it all together. Plus, who can resist that garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for this dish. If you want a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Both will work well with the sauce.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, but if you’re short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Just add them in the last minute so they heat through without overcooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness, but you can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter if you prefer a lighter flavor or want to keep it dairy-free.
Chicken Broth or Wine: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth is perfect. Vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian option. For a bit of flavor, use a splash of lemon juice or extra herbs if needed.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick! If you’re sensitive to heat, you can skip this or use a pinch of black pepper instead.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp to Ensure They’re Juicy?
Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky. They can become rubbery if overcooked, so here are some tips to get them just right:
- Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels—this helps them sear nicely.
- Use medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan; it allows even cooking.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them and cook for another 2 minutes. They’re done when they curl into a letter “C”.
- Remove them from the skillet promptly to prevent overcooking; the residual heat will finish them off.
By following these tips, your shrimp will be tender and bursting with flavor in your garlic pasta!
Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients List:
Pasta:
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
Shrimp and Sauce:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth or white wine
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal can be ready in under 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and 15-20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta, but remember to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic brown too much!
3. Add the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add your shrimp! Place them in the skillet in a single layer. Season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them and cook for another 2 minutes or until they are fully cooked. Once done, take the shrimp out and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and pour in the chicken broth or white wine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes. You want it to be flavorful but not too thick!
5. Combine Everything:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Then, add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time if you need to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
6. Season and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed. Serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
This meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for impressing family or guests with minimal effort!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can do this by overnighting them in the fridge or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat dry before seasoning.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine or Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can replace white wine or chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water mixed with a splash of lemon juice for flavor. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste as needed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
It’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh for the best texture and flavor, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and then toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
