Garlic Shrimp Pasta – Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality dinner at home, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect recipe. Juicy, tender shrimp tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish both elegant and incredibly easy to prepare. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

This easy garlic shrimp pasta recipe is packed with bold flavor and simple ingredients that American home cooks love.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Pasta

✅ Ready in 30 minutes
✅ Rich garlic butter flavor
✅ Perfect for weeknight dinners
✅ Family-friendly and elegant
✅ Easy to customize

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this shrimp pasta recipe never disappoints.

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Main Ingredients:

12 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamy version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti or linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

For a creamy version, add heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Don’t overcook shrimp — they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

Delicious Variations

Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Use fettuccine or angel hair pasta.
Make it spicy with extra red pepper flakes.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter option.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Pair this dish with:

Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted asparagus
Steamed broccoli

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Not ideal for freezing due to cream-based sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild, but you can adjust the heat by adding or reducing red pepper flakes.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Skip the butter and cream, and use olive oil instead.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a simple yet impressive meal that delivers bold garlic flavor and tender shrimp in every bite. Whether you prefer a light lemon garlic sauce or a creamy Parmesan version, this easy shrimp pasta will quickly become a go-to dinner recipe.

Make this delicious garlic shrimp pasta tonight and enjoy a restaurant-style meal right at home!

Garlic Shrimp Pasta