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; 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 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: Easy Quick Meals Ideas

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

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:46:34.153Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a dish that combines fresh shrimp with garlic, olive oil, and pasta for a delightful meal that can be prepared in no time. It's a favorite for those who love seafood and want a quick, satisfying dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation time, perfect for busy evenings
Savory garlic flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully
A satisfying meal that feels gourmet with minimal effort

      

A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Option

When time is of the essence, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta comes to the rescue. It's an ideal choice for those busy evenings when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant.

This pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also loaded with flavor. The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a savory experience that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your preference.

Gourmet Meal Made Easy

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to impress your family or guests with this dish. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for a gourmet meal that requires minimal effort. Cooking shrimp is a breeze, and when paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a light garlic sauce, it transforms into an elegant dinner option.

The best part? This meal can be elevated further with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of lemon juice. Such additions not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a romantic meal for two, or simply want to treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta fits the bill. Its quick preparation makes it accessible for any occasion, ensuring you can enjoy a delightful meal without the stress of extensive cooking.

Moreover, this recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to swap out the shrimp for chicken or even a plant-based protein. You can also toss in seasonal vegetables to create a dish that complements your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or linguine
Salt for boiling water

For the Garlic Shrimp

250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and set aside while you prepare the pasta.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Garlic Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

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

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful garlic shrimp pasta!

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Pasta

To ensure perfect pasta, always cook it al dente. This will give your dish a wonderful texture and prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the shrimp. Remember to reserve some pasta water; it can be a game-changer in achieving the right sauce consistency.

When cooking shrimp, make sure they are fresh and properly deveined. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them as they turn pink. As a pro tip, you can marinate the shrimp briefly in olive oil, garlic, and spices for an extra flavor boost before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. The freshness of a salad complements the richness of the pasta, making for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

Don't forget about dessert! A light sorbet or a fruit tart would be the perfect ending to this seafood pasta feast. It keeps the meal refreshing and light, ensuring your dinner guests leave satisfied but not overly stuffed.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or pasta water to prevent drying out. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious not to overheat the shrimp.

For longer storage, consider freezing the garlic shrimp and pasta separately. This way, you can enjoy the meal at a later time without compromising on texture and flavor. Just ensure to thaw them properly before reheating to maintain their quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them in cold water before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine works best, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic shrimp ahead and toss with cooked pasta later.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic shrimp for extra heat.