Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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If there’s one dish that instantly makes me feel like I’ve cooked something fancy without spending hours in the kitchen, it’s this Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta. It’s the kind of meal that looks impressive on the plate but comes together in about 30 minutes. The flavors are bold and garlicky, the shrimp are perfectly seared, and the pasta soaks up all that savory goodness from the pan.

I make this dish when I want something comforting but still light, or when I have guests and need to serve up something that feels a bit more special. The best part? It’s flexible enough to play with—you can keep it classic or give it a twist depending on what you have in the fridge. Either way, this one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This pasta dish is the perfect mix of quick, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re in the mood for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t take forever or a weekend dish to impress, this recipe delivers. It uses pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, and the result is way better than takeout.

The garlic-infused olive oil, juicy shrimp, and touch of chili flakes create a spicy-savory bite in every forkful. And since the sauce lightly coats the pasta instead of drowning it, the textures stay balanced and clean.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

I recommend using large or extra-large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Tail-on adds a nice look for presentation, but you can go tail-off for easier eating. Fresh or frozen both work well—just make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.

If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but they won’t soak up as much flavor and can easily overcook, so they’ll need less time in the pan.

Options for Substitutions

No spaghetti? Swap it out for linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair for a lighter version.

If you’re not into shrimp, try it with scallops or sliced grilled chicken. For a vegetarian option, roasted mushrooms or sautéed zucchini make a delicious swap.

You can use gluten-free pasta, whole wheat noodles, or even zucchini noodles if you’re cutting carbs. Want it creamier? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoon of cream cheese at the end.

And for the garlic lovers—yes, you can absolutely add more garlic. I do it all the time.

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Ingredients for this Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Spaghetti or Linguine: This forms the base of the dish. Its long strands are ideal for soaking up the garlic-infused olive oil.
• Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein—tender, juicy, and fast-cooking. Adds flavor and texture.
• Garlic (freshly minced): Essential for building that bold, savory aroma and taste.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and shrimp. A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a gentle kick of heat that balances the richness of the shrimp.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: Brightens the entire pasta with acidity and enhances the seafood flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, umami finish that ties everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning each layer of the dish.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. This releases its full flavor into the oil.

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Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and lightly golden. Remove shrimp and set aside.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the same skillet. Toss it in the garlic oil and add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help it coat evenly. Stir in lemon zest and juice for brightness.

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Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Toss gently until well combined.

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Step 6: Serve Immediately

Plate the pasta and shrimp while hot. Add an extra touch of grated Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and a few chili flakes if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

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How Long to Prepare the Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Preparing this dish is surprisingly quick, which is why it’s become a go-to in my kitchen. From start to finish, you can have it on the table in just about 30 minutes.

Prep Time: Peeling and deveining the shrimp, mincing the garlic, chopping parsley, and zesting the lemon takes around 10–15 minutes, especially if you’re working efficiently. If you buy pre-cleaned shrimp, it’s even faster.

Cook Time: Boiling pasta and cooking the shrimp and garlic takes about another 10–15 minutes. It’s important to have all your ingredients ready before starting because this dish moves quickly once the heat is on.

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Tips for Perfect Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Use fresh garlic—not the jarred kind—for the boldest, most aromatic flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done.
• Reserve some pasta water—it helps create a silky, emulsified sauce.
• Toss the pasta in the garlic oil quickly so it absorbs the flavor evenly.
• Finish with fresh parsley and lemon juice for brightness and balance.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the shrimp: It can make them rubbery. Keep a close eye—they cook fast.
• Burning the garlic: It turns bitter and will ruin the flavor of your dish. Lower the heat if needed.
• Using too much cheese while cooking: Parmesan can clump if added too early or to too-hot pasta. Sprinkle at the end.
• Forgetting to salt the pasta water: It’s the only chance to season the pasta from within.
• Not prepping in advance: This dish cooks fast, so having everything ready before you start is essential.

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What to Serve With Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—perfect for mopping up leftover garlic oil.

2. Simple Green Salad

A light, lemony salad balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

3. Roasted Asparagus

Adds a nice earthy note that pairs well with shrimp.

4. White Wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)

Elevates the dish and complements the citrus and garlic flavors.

5. Grilled Zucchini or Eggplant

Smoky and tender veggies are great side options that don’t compete with the pasta’s flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover garlic shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp are completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta and prevent it from drying out. Avoid using the microwave, as shrimp can turn rubbery quickly.

Freezing: Not recommended. The texture of the shrimp and pasta doesn’t hold up well after freezing and thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best cooked fresh to keep the shrimp tender and the pasta perfectly coated.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and linguine are classic, but fettuccine or even angel hair can work well too.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a gentle heat from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust it to taste or omit entirely.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. The dish still shines with garlic and lemon.

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Conclusion

Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a Tuesday night. Every bite is loaded with garlicky flavor, juicy shrimp, and a balance of spice and citrus. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this recipe delivers on flavor, speed, and satisfaction. It’s a must-keep in your weekly rotation.

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