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 water; 250g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 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: Rapid Food

A quick and delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta blends succulent shrimp with al dente pasta in a flavorful garlic sauce.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:34:35.625Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a last-minute dinner or a cozy night in, it combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to deliver a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes
Flavorful garlic and shrimp combination
Perfect for a romantic dinner or family meal

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When time is of the essence, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta shines as a go-to recipe. It’s designed for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of shrimp and pasta not only satisfies hunger but also offers a gourmet touch that feels special.

This dish is not only quick but also versatile. You can adapt it by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping the pasta type to fit dietary preferences. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that you can whip it up even on the most hectic of days, making it an invaluable addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredient Quality Matters

For the best flavor, start with high-quality shrimp. Fresh or frozen shrimp can work well, but make sure they’re large and succulent to absorb the garlic and olive oil beautifully. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them properly to maintain their texture and taste.

Olive oil is another crucial ingredient in this dish. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, which enhances the overall dish. Additionally, fresh garlic is a must—its aromatic properties elevate the dish and provide that distinctive taste that garlic lovers crave. Using freshly minced garlic instead of pre-packaged options will make a noticeable difference.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta, balancing the meal beautifully. This combination is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home.

For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some additional red pepper flakes on top before serving. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the pasta for a bright finish. Pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will enhance the flavors further, making your meal truly memorable.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water

For the Garlic Shrimp

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

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together until well combined. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Tips for Success

To ensure your shrimp stay juicy, avoid overcooking them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat. This will help maintain their tender texture, making every bite delightful.

When cooking the pasta, be sure to taste it a minute or two before the package instructions say it's done. This way, you can achieve the perfect al dente texture, which holds up well when tossed with the shrimp and sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent it from drying out.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can also repurpose leftovers into a delicious shrimp pasta salad. Just let it cool, mix in some fresh veggies and a light dressing, and you have a quick lunch option for the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them beforehand.

→ What type of pasta can I use?

You can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to heat things up.