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: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Home Quick Meals Ideas

A quick and delicious meal that combines succulent shrimp with pasta in a garlic-infused sauce, ready in just 15 minutes.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:13:34.192Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Rich garlic flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully
Comforting pasta dish that the whole family will enjoy

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Finding time to prepare a home-cooked meal during busy weeknights can be a challenge. That's where this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta shines. It’s a dish that doesn't compromise on flavor or quality, allowing you to serve a delicious dinner without the stress of a lengthy cooking process. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a gourmet experience right at your dinner table.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or just looking for a quick solution to dinner, this dish is your go-to choice.

Ingredient Highlights

This dish features fresh shrimp, which are not only packed with protein but also cook quickly, making them ideal for fast meals. When selecting shrimp, look for large, firm specimens that are translucent in color. Fresh shrimp will elevate the dish, but frozen shrimp can be used in a pinch; just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

The garlic-infused olive oil is what truly brings this pasta to life. Garlic adds depth and richness, while red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick that rounds out the flavors perfectly. Adding fresh parsley at the end not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing this garlic shrimp pasta with a light salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the pasta and provide a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

If you're looking to elevate your dish even further, consider adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add color and nutrition, making your meal even more satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious garlic shrimp pasta.

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.

Sauté the Shrimp

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

Combine Shrimp and Pasta

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix well.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your meal, ready in just 15 minutes!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, keep an eye on the color. They should turn a lovely pink and opaque once done. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so be careful not to leave them in the skillet too long.

If you're a garlic lover, feel free to increase the amount of minced garlic in the recipe. You can also experiment with adding other herbs, such as basil or thyme, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

It's important to note that while this dish can be reheated, the texture of the shrimp may change slightly. For the best experience, it's recommended to enjoy it fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What other pasta can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta of your choice.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.