This Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti is a quick, flavorful weeknight dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste in just 25 minutes.
Packed with protein from succulent shrimp and heart-healthy fats from butter, it’s light yet satisfying.
The garlic-lemon sauce enhances flavor without extra calories, making it a perfect high-protein, fiber-rich, and easy-to-make option for busy evenings or meal prep.
Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
- 1 large skillet (for cooking shrimp and sauce)
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 –3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Salting the water is essential as it seasons the spaghetti from the inside out, enhancing its flavor. Once boiling, the water should bubble vigorously before adding the pasta.
- Cook the Spaghetti Perfectly: Add 8 ounces of spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until it reaches al dente—a firm yet tender bite. Stir occasionally throughout the cooking process. Once done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside. Saving the pasta water is important for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.
- Melt the Butter for Shrimp: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt completely. The butter should sizzle slightly, releasing its rich aroma, which forms the foundation for the shrimp’s flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the melted butter. Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper evenly over the shrimp. Stir occasionally, ensuring each shrimp is coated in butter and seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns opaque and pink, curling slightly. Avoid overcooking to maintain tender, juicy shrimp. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside while keeping the skillet hot for the sauce.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Immediately add 4 minced garlic cloves. Stir continuously and cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burned garlic can taste bitter and ruin the sauce. The sizzling butter with garlic creates a rich, aromatic base that will coat the spaghetti beautifully.
- Add Lemon Juice and Pasta Water: Turn off the heat temporarily and pour in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Then, slowly add the reserved pasta water, about ¼–½ cup at a time, depending on the sauce consistency you prefer. Stir to combine. The starchy pasta water helps create a silky, slightly thickened sauce that clings perfectly to the spaghetti.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and fully incorporates into the buttery garlic sauce. This adds a creamy texture and a savory depth of flavor that balances the tang of the lemon juice.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the spaghetti thoroughly in the garlic butter sauce. Ensure each strand is evenly coated, absorbing the flavors of garlic, butter, lemon, and parmesan. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash more reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add Cooked Shrimp: Gently place the cooked shrimp on top of the spaghetti. Toss lightly once or twice to combine, being careful not to break the shrimp apart. This step ensures each bite has a perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and tender shrimp.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor. Optionally, you can add a little extra parmesan on top. Serve the Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti immediately while warm, as this dish tastes best fresh. Pair it with a simple side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use large, fresh shrimp whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp work well, but thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s a secret ingredient that helps create a smooth, silky sauce that clings perfectly to the spaghetti.
- Adjust crushed red pepper to your heat preference. You can omit it for a mild version or increase slightly for a spicier kick.
- Freshly grated parmesan gives a richer flavor than pre-grated options, enhancing the creamy garlic sauce.
- This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute meals.
Chef’s Secrets: Insider Cooking Techniques
The key to restaurant-quality Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti lies in layering flavors carefully.
First, cook the shrimp just until they turn pink—overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their delicate flavor.
Next, sauté garlic in butter for a short period; burnt garlic can overpower the dish.
Adding a small amount of reserved pasta water at the end ensures the sauce binds to the noodles perfectly.
Finally, finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley to brighten the flavors.
Using high-quality butter and parmesan elevates the dish significantly without adding extra complexity.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve this Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
Crusty bread or garlic bread is a great addition to soak up the buttery sauce.
For a refreshing beverage, a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the citrusy garlic flavors beautifully.
This dish also works well for meal prep; divide into portions and enjoy throughout the week with minimal reheating.
Storage Tips: Keeping Pasta Fresh Longer
Leftover Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh the sauce.
Avoid microwaving directly without liquid, as it can dry out the shrimp and pasta.
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked spaghetti and shrimp separately in portioned containers for up to two months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess water in the sauce. This ensures the shrimp sear properly and the sauce maintains the right consistency.
2. How can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Simply substitute the spaghetti with any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Most gluten-free pastas cook similarly to traditional pasta, though cooking times may vary slightly, so follow package instructions carefully.
3. Can I make this recipe creamy?
Absolutely! For a richer, creamier sauce, add a small splash of milk, cream, or half-and-half while stirring in the parmesan and pasta water. Start with 2–3 tablespoons and adjust to your preferred consistency.
4. How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook shrimp on medium-high heat for only 2–3 minutes per side until they turn opaque pink and curl slightly.
Remove them immediately from the skillet; carryover heat is enough to finish cooking without becoming rubbery.
5. Can I prepare this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Yes! Cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then store in airtight containers.
Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of pasta water or butter to revive the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for the best flavor.
