Shrimp and garlic pasta is a classic, comforting dish that brings together succulent shrimp and tender pasta, all tossed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on a busy weeknight or something that feels a little more indulgent for a special occasion, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. The aromatic combination of garlic and shrimp, along with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, creates a vibrant dish that can be served on its own or paired with sides for a complete meal.

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Ingredients Overview

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays an important role in bringing out the best flavors. The shrimp, which should be fresh or properly thawed if frozen, acts as the star protein, offering a light and sweet taste. Garlic, known for its robust flavor, adds depth and intensity when sautéed in butter. The butter itself creates a rich base, while a drizzle of olive oil enhances the overall texture and flavor.

Herbs and seasonings like Italian seasoning, fresh ground pepper, and red pepper flakes add layers of seasoning, making every bite dynamic and flavorful. It’s important to reserve some pasta water while cooking the noodles, as this starchy liquid helps bind the pasta and sauce together, giving it that glossy, restaurant-quality finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To create this shrimp and garlic pasta, begin by boiling your spaghetti in a pot of salted water until it’s al dente. For an added layer of flavor, add a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs to the water. While the pasta is cooking, prepare your shrimp by rinsing and patting them dry.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the shrimp. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they begin to turn pink and curl slightly. Shrimp cook quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on them. Next, add the minced garlic and let it sauté alongside the shrimp, infusing the entire skillet with a fragrant aroma. After the garlic has softened and the shrimp are fully cooked, drizzle in olive oil and continue stirring.

Once the shrimp are done, it’s time to combine the pasta. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the shrimp and garlic. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, adding just enough to keep the pasta from becoming dry. Keep tossing everything in the skillet to ensure the shrimp and garlic sauce coats every strand of spaghetti. Finally, season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground pepper to taste.

Recipe Tips

Prevent Overcooking Shrimp:
Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch them closely. As soon as they turn pink and curl, remove them from the heat to avoid rubbery texture.

Add More Flavor:
Sprinkle lemon zest or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta to brighten the flavors. Freshly chopped parsley or basil also works well as a garnish.

Alternative Ingredients:
For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free spaghetti. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan butter or olive oil exclusively.

Adjust for Family Size:
This recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on the number of servings needed.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Shrimp and garlic pasta is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to make it a complete meal. A crisp, light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich garlic butter sauce perfectly. For an extra indulgence, serve with warm garlic bread on the side. You can also roast some seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a more balanced meal.

As for drinks, a chilled glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the shrimp and garlic flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Variations of the Recipe

This recipe is easy to customize according to your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, you can add sautéed spinach or blistered cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.

For a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream or a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy garlic pasta. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish. The recipe can also be adjusted with different types of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, for a slight variation in texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shrimp and garlic pasta will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used as long as they are fully thawed before cooking. Pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely in the skillet.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti is a great choice, but other long pasta types like linguine or fettuccine will work just as well. Even short pasta like penne or rigatoni can be used for a different texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the components ahead. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately, and combine them with the sauce just before serving for the best texture.

Shrimp and garlic pasta is a crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavors to the table without demanding too much time in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish offers the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Serve it with a light salad, some crusty bread, and a glass of wine for a complete, satisfying meal that will surely be a hit.

Ingredients

1 lb spaghetti noodles (adjust quantity based on family size)
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
1⁄4 cup butter
6-8 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to taste)
Olive oil (about 3 drizzles)
Fresh herbs (adjust to your preference)
Italian seasoning
Salt
Fresh ground pepper
Red pepper flakes
Reserved pasta water (about 1 cup)

Instructions

Start by boiling the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water, cooking it until tender. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a handful of fresh herbs to the water for extra flavor. Once the pasta is done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Set the cooked noodles aside.

While the pasta is cooking, rinse and clean the shrimp thoroughly. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook them gently until they turn slightly pink and begin to curl. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and let it sauté with the shrimp for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Next, drizzle in the olive oil and continue to stir until the shrimp is fully cooked, pink, and curled. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the shrimp, stirring well to combine. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the pasta has the right consistency—moist but not overly saucy.

Finally, season the dish with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Keep tossing the ingredients in the skillet until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors of garlic, shrimp, and herbs.