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

Highlighted under: Fast Kitchen

Quick and delicious, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that will satisfy your cravings.

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:16:34.081Z

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is not just quick and easy, but it also bursts with flavor! Perfect for busy evenings, you'll love how simple it is to prepare a gourmet meal in just 15 minutes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Rich garlic flavor with a hint of spice
Light yet satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy

A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Option

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a home-cooked meal can be challenging. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the answer to your dinner dilemmas. With its quick preparation time, you can whip up a delicious meal that brings the flavors of the ocean right to your table. The combination of shrimp and garlic creates a savory dish that is sure to impress both family and friends.

Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also offers a balance of nutrients. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and are low in calories, making this pasta dish a healthy option for your weeknight meals. Paired with spaghetti, it delivers a comforting yet light meal that satisfies your cravings without weighing you down.

Customizing Your Garlic Shrimp Pasta

One of the great things about this Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For those who love a little extra kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes or tossing in some diced jalapeños. Alternatively, if you prefer milder flavors, omit the spice and let the garlic shine.

Feel free to add veggies to the mix as well. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can enhance the dish's nutritional profile while adding vibrant colors and textures. Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the shrimp for a delicious and wholesome meal that everyone will love.

Tips for Perfect Pasta and Shrimp

To achieve the best results, it's important to cook your pasta and shrimp perfectly. For the pasta, make sure to use a large pot with plenty of salted water. This helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents it from sticking together. Follow the package instructions for al dente pasta, which will hold its shape and texture when tossed with the shrimp.

When cooking the shrimp, remember that they cook quickly. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they're ready to be combined with the pasta. This will ensure that your dish is succulent and flavorful, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt for boiling

For the Garlic Shrimp

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

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

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

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the garlic oil. Cook for an additional minute.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your meal!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some lemon zest or juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Garlic Shrimp Pasta is just as important as preparing it. A simple garnish of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. This small touch can elevate your meal from delicious to spectacular.

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded dinner. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully and makes for a delightful dining experience.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their freshness. Allow the Garlic Shrimp Pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent drying out.

Keep in mind that while the flavors may still be delicious, the texture of the shrimp may change slightly after reheating. For the best experience, consuming the dish fresh is always recommended, but leftovers can still make for a quick and easy lunch the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What other pasta can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, like fettuccine or penne.

→ Can I make this a vegetarian dish?

Absolutely! You can replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat!