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: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Highlighted under: Everyday Inspiration

Prepare a delicious and quick meal with this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:49:34.329Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that highlights the delicious flavors of garlic and shrimp. Ideal for busy evenings, this recipe can be whipped up in no time, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Packed with flavor from fresh garlic and shrimp
Perfect for a romantic dinner or a weeknight meal

      

A Quick Dinner Solution

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is designed for those hectic evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. With its simple ingredients and fast preparation time, you can have dinner on the table in a flash without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe is particularly helpful for busy families or professionals who may not have the luxury of spending hours in the kitchen. By using shrimp, which cooks quickly, and pairing it with pasta, you create a balanced meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to whip up. It's a lifesaver for those nights when you need a delicious meal without the fuss!

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the shrimp, which adds a touch of elegance and protein to the meal. Sourced fresh or frozen, shrimp cooks in mere minutes, making it ideal for quick recipes. Paired with the robust flavor of garlic and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that will impress your taste buds.

Adding fresh parsley not only enhances the dish's presentation but also contributes a fresh, herby flavor that balances the richness of the shrimp and olive oil. The lemon wedges served alongside provide a zesty finish that brightens up the entire dish, making every forkful refreshing and satisfying.

Perfect Pairings

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is versatile and can be paired with various sides to create a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully, adding crunch and freshness. Alternatively, serve it with garlic bread for a comforting and hearty dining experience, perfect for a cozy night in.

For beverage options, a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the garlic and seafood flavors. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon can enhance the meal while keeping it light and refreshing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

With these ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the shrimp and garlic. Cook for an additional minute to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Your Garlic Shrimp Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from this delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.

When reheating, consider using a skillet over low heat to preserve the shrimp's texture. A splash of olive oil or a bit of water can help revive the dish, bringing it back to life. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery instead of tender and succulent.

Customization Ideas

One of the beauties of this recipe is its adaptability. If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to incorporate more nutrients and color. Simply sauté them along with the shrimp for optimal flavor and texture.

For those who enjoy a creamier sauce, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese can be stirred in just before serving. This addition creates a rich, decadent sauce that envelops the shrimp and pasta beautifully, transforming the dish into a lavish treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any type of pasta, such as linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and toss it with freshly cooked pasta right before serving.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.