15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; Salt, for boiling; 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Highlighted under: Rapid Cooking

This quick and delicious 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. With succulent shrimp and a light garlic sauce, it's a satisfying meal that's ready in no time.

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:05:34.454Z

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: speed and flavor. In just 15 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family or guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Garlic and shrimp create a delightful flavor combination
Minimal ingredients make it accessible for everyone

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to quick dinners, few dishes can compete with this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta. With the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's essential to have recipes in your arsenal that allow you to whip up a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish beautifully combines the flavors of succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic, creating a restaurant-quality meal that you can enjoy at home.

This garlic shrimp pasta is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a little extra spice with more red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top, this dish can be customized to your taste, ensuring that it always feels fresh and exciting.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of the standout features of this recipe is its minimal ingredient list. With just a handful of staples, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh garlic, succulent shrimp, and a touch of olive oil creates a delightful medley that elevates the pasta beyond a typical weeknight meal. It's a wonderful reminder that cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious.

Using fresh ingredients will enhance the taste of your dish significantly. If possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen, as they tend to have a better texture and flavor. Pair this dish with a crisp salad or some garlic bread to round out your meal and impress your family or guests without breaking a sweat.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly, always refer to the package instructions for the best results. Cooking it to al dente provides the perfect texture that holds up well against the flavorful shrimp and garlic sauce. Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it can be a great addition to the skillet if you need to loosen the sauce.

When cooking the shrimp, be cautious not to overcook them. They cook quickly and will turn from a translucent gray to a lovely pink when done. Keeping an eye on them will ensure they remain juicy and tender, making your garlic shrimp pasta a delightful experience with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt, for boiling

For the Garlic Shrimp

250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with shrimp and toss to combine. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp pasta!

Pro Tips

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream before combining the pasta with the shrimp.

Variations and Customizations

This garlic shrimp pasta is easily adaptable. If you're a seafood lover, consider adding scallops or mussels for an even more indulgent dish. For those looking to incorporate more vegetables, toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last minute of cooking for added color and nutrients.

You can also experiment with different types of pasta. While spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to use linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs. Each variation can bring a new twist to the flavor and texture of this quick meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining flavor and texture. Allow the pasta and shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they can last for up to two days, making them a fantastic option for meal prep.

When it comes time to reheat, do so gently. A skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water can help revive the dish without making it dry. Stir frequently to ensure even heating, and enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp pasta all over again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

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

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes would be great additions.