Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti is a quick and elegant pasta dish that brings together succulent shrimp, al dente spaghetti, and a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet light, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The shrimp are sautéed until tender and juicy, then tossed with spaghetti in a sauce that’s fragrant, savory, and just the right amount of zesty. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this dish is a go-to for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté for 1–2 minutes until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in lemon juice and ½ cup of reserved pasta water.
- Add parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and sauce is slightly thickened.
4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a little at a time.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes to reheat shrimp and allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
- Serve immediately with extra parmesan and lemon wedges if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
- A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the dish beautifully.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Creamy twist: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free spaghetti.
- Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Make ahead: Cook shrimp and sauce in advance; reheat and toss with fresh pasta.
This dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor—perfect for someone like you who knows how to turn everyday ingredients into something indulgent and crowd-pleasing. Want to follow it up with a tropical dessert or a sugar-free treat? I’ve got plenty of ideas to keep the inspiration flowing.