Name: Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Reserved pasta water as needed

Description

Garlic shrimp pasta is a quick, flavorful dinner featuring tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and tossed with pasta in a light, savory sauce. This easy dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a simple date night at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 ounces spaghetti or linguine

Shrimp and Sauce

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Reserved pasta water as needed

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
Sauté the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated evenly and the sauce clings lightly to the noodles.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Add baby spinach or halved cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Use angel hair pasta for a lighter texture or fettuccine for a heartier dish.
Stir in a splash of cream for extra richness if desired.