15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Highlighted under: Easy Food

This quick and flavorful 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that comes together effortlessly, bringing the taste of the sea right to your table.

Zadie Whitmore

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:41:34.696Z

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that's both satisfying and delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
  • Bursting with garlicky flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp
  • Creamy and comforting, yet light on the stomach

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're pressed for time but still want a delicious homemade meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to recipe. The simplicity of this dish means you can have a gourmet dinner on the table in no time—ideal for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Not to mention, the satisfaction of cooking a meal from scratch adds a special touch to your dining experience.

This pasta dish not only saves time but also highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients. The combination of shrimp and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent yet remains light and healthy.

Flavorful Ingredients

The key to this dish lies in its fresh ingredients. Shrimp, when cooked just right, offers a sweet and tender bite that perfectly complements the garlicky sauce. The olive oil not only adds richness but also helps in achieving that luscious texture that makes the pasta so enjoyable. Don't shy away from using quality ingredients; they elevate the dish from simple to spectacular.

Garlic is the star of this recipe, providing a depth of flavor that enhances every bite. Whether you love it mild or strong, you can adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes introduces a bit of heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the overall flavor profile, making each forkful even more delightful.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the great things about this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus can easily be tossed in for added nutrition and color. This flexibility allows you to create a unique dish every time you make it.

If you want to elevate the meal further, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. The nutty flavor of the cheese complements the garlicky shrimp beautifully. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 200g spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Optional Add-ins

  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Lemon juice for brightness
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook for the best experience!

Cooking 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.

Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and optional toppings.

Your delicious 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!

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Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the shrimp.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of pasta water can help revive the dish and keep it from drying out.

Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to rubbery shrimp. Instead, take your time warming it up on the stove for the best texture and flavor. Remember, shrimp can become tough if overcooked, so keep an eye on them while reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors in your Garlic Shrimp Pasta, consider serving it with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines enhance the seafood flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

If you're looking for non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a light herbal iced tea can also be delightful choices. These beverages will cleanse your palate and enhance your overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta of your choice.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance to save time.

15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This quick and flavorful 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that comes together effortlessly, bringing the taste of the sea right to your table.

Prep Time5 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Zadie Whitmore

Recipe Type: Easy Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 200g spaghetti
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Optional Add-ins

  1. Red pepper flakes for heat
  2. Lemon juice for brightness
  3. Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

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.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 03

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and optional toppings.

Extra Tips

  1. For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the shrimp.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 24g