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 or linguine; Salt for boiling water; 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Quick Meals Recipes

Quick and delicious, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:52:34.728Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just quick to make; it's also bursting with flavor. The succulent shrimp, combined with a simple garlic sauce and al dente pasta, makes for a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the fuss.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Bursting with flavor from garlic and fresh herbs
Perfectly cooked shrimp that are tender and juicy
A complete meal in one bowl

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When the clock is ticking and dinner needs to be on the table fast, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta comes to the rescue. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels gourmet. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a spontaneous gathering with friends, this dish is your go-to solution for satisfying hunger without sacrificing flavor or quality.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its speed but also in its versatility. You can easily substitute the shrimp with chicken or even vegetables to cater to different dietary preferences. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this delightful pasta dish time and again, adapting to your mood or the ingredients you have on hand.

Flavor-Packed Ingredients

Garlic is the star of this dish, infusing the pasta with its rich aroma and robust flavor. When sautéed in olive oil, it becomes golden and fragrant, making your kitchen smell divine. The addition of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, balancing the dish perfectly while enhancing the overall taste.

The use of fresh parsley as a garnish not only elevates the dish visually but also adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp and garlic. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, ensure your shrimp are fresh and properly cleaned. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them while cooking. They only need a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This timing is crucial for maintaining that tender, juicy bite that makes this dish so enjoyable.

Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Adding it gradually allows you to control the thickness of your sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta and shrimp.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or linguine
Salt for boiling water

For the Shrimp

300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Mix and match vegetables or add a squeeze of lemon for extra zest!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Toss everything together and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve immediately for best flavor and texture!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Garlic shrimp pasta stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, it's best to do so gently on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil can help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. While the texture of shrimp may change slightly upon thawing, it will still be delicious. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly, adding a zesty contrast to the rich pasta. Alternatively, serve it with warm, crusty garlic bread for a comforting touch that everyone will love.

For wine lovers, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully. The acidity and fruitiness of these wines enhance the flavors of the shrimp and garlic, making for a splendid dining experience.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and add even more color to your plate. Simply toss them in with the shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for a quick sauté.

If you're a fan of cheese, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or feta cheese just before serving. This addition will provide a creamy texture and a salty burst of flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Experimenting with different herbs, such as basil or thyme, can also introduce new dimensions to this classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for pasta?

You can use zucchini noodles or any gluten-free pasta of your choice.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and garlic sauce in advance and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.