Name: Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed; 8 ounces spaghetti (or pasta of choice); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

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This garlic shrimp pasta is one of my favorite quick dinners to make when I want something simple yet full of flavor. The shrimp cook up tender and juicy, the garlic butter sauce coats every strand of pasta, and the light touch of Italian seasoning ties it all together. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and freshness, and it always feels like a restaurant-style meal made right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it comes together fast and tastes amazing with just a few ingredients. The garlic and butter make a rich, fragrant base, while the olive oil keeps everything light. I can spice it up with red pepper flakes or keep it mild depending on my mood. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, medium, deveined and tails removed
Spaghetti noodles (or pasta of choice)
Garlic cloves, minced
Butter
Olive oil
Italian seasoning
Fresh ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

I cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
In a large skillet, I heat butter and a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
I add the garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
I season the shrimp with Italian seasoning, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, then cook them in the skillet until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. I remove the shrimp and set aside.
I add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with the garlic butter sauce and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
I return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together.
I garnish with parsley and Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in around 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. If I want it creamier, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta. I also like swapping spaghetti for linguine or angel hair. For a veggie boost, I toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini ribbons.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil or splash of broth so the sauce comes back to life. The microwave works too, but I prefer the skillet to keep the shrimp from getting rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp—just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

How do I keep the garlic from burning?

I cook it over medium heat and stir constantly, since garlic can turn bitter if browned too much.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely. Linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work well with this recipe.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, I add extra red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne for more heat.

What can I serve with garlic shrimp pasta?

I like pairing it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This garlic shrimp pasta is quick, easy, and full of rich flavors. The buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a dish I love to cook again and again. It’s a simple recipe that always impresses at the dinner table.