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: 200g spaghetti; Salt (for pasta water); 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Inspiration

A quick and delicious pasta dish that comes together in just 15 minutes, featuring succulent shrimp and a garlicky sauce.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:37:35.612Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner for those busy evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a mouthwatering dish that will impress anyone.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners
Flavorful garlic sauce that enhances the shrimp
Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and color

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to recipe. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it fits perfectly into a busy weeknight routine. You can whip it up after a long day at work or even on a lazy Sunday. The beauty of this dish lies in its speed without sacrificing flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.

The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Plus, this recipe is easily adjustable; you can add in your favorite vegetables or substitute the shrimp for chicken or tofu, ensuring that it appeals to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.

Cooking with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to elevating this simple pasta dish. Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also cooks quickly, ensuring you achieve that perfect tender texture. Likewise, using fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile, making the dish aromatic and savory. If you have access to fresh herbs, like parsley, don’t hesitate to use them; they bring a brightness that complements the richness of the olive oil and shrimp.

Incorporating fresh ingredients also means you can feel good about what you're serving, as they are packed with nutrients and flavor. This simple choice can transform an everyday meal into something special, making it not only a treat for your taste buds but also a healthy option for you and your family.

A Versatile Dish

One of the great things about this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to introduce more color and nutrition. If you enjoy a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce.

You can also experiment with different types of pasta. While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use fettuccine, linguine, or even gluten-free options. This adaptability makes Garlic Shrimp Pasta a fantastic dish to keep in your rotation, allowing you to create something new each time you make it.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt (for pasta water)

For the Garlic Shrimp

200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to swap out spaghetti for your favorite pasta type!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your meal!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, remember that timing is crucial. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them as they turn pink. Typically, shrimp will take about 3-4 minutes to cook through. If you're unsure, you can cut one in half to check for doneness; it should be opaque and not translucent.

Also, consider the size of the shrimp you buy. Larger shrimp can add a more substantial bite to your dish, while smaller shrimp may cook faster. Whichever size you choose, ensure they're cleaned properly and patted dry to get a nice sear when they hit the hot skillet.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, it's best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This pasta dish can be kept for up to two days, although the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of broth to help revive the flavors and moisture, preventing the pasta from drying out.

Reheating can be done in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can lead to overcooked shrimp and pasta that has lost its texture.

Pairing Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines complements the richness of the garlic sauce and shrimp, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider serving it with sparkling water or a zesty lemonade to cut through the flavors.

For a complete meal, serve this pasta alongside a fresh green salad or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Adding a light dessert, like sorbet or a fruit salad, can round out the meal beautifully, making it a delightful dining experience for you and your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta type, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time.