This Shrimp and Garlic Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce. The pasta is perfectly coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce with a hint of lemon, making it the perfect dinner for any night of the week.

Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will transport your taste buds to an Italian-inspired dinner with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or frying pan
Strainer for draining pasta
Wooden spoon or spatula
Tongs for serving pasta
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Pasta:

8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta (or your preferred pasta)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not burned.

4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water and lemon juice, tossing to combine. Add the shrimp back to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the garlic butter sauce.

5. Serve:

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Recipe Tips

Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the dish for more color and flavor.
Extra Sauce: If you like a saucier dish, add a little more pasta water or more butter to create a richer sauce.
Garlic Lovers: Feel free to increase the garlic if you’re a fan of stronger garlic flavors.
Shrimp Variations: You can also use scallops or chicken in place of shrimp for a different version of this dish.

What to Serve with Shrimp and Garlic Pasta

Side Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: A side of broccoli or green beans will balance out the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like works for this recipe. Try penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

3. Can I make this ahead of time? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

Enjoy this easy and flavorful Shrimp and Garlic Pasta, a perfect combination of savory shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta!