Cooking at home has become more of a norm for many of us, and it’s the perfect opportunity to delve into new recipes that bring comfort and a dash of culinary adventure to our tables. One such discovery that has become a staple in our household is Garlic Shrimp Pasta. It’s quick to whip up, irresistibly delicious, and just the thing for a hassle-free lunch or dinner that feels a bit special.
I still vividly recall the evening I first threw this dish together. I had just come home from a long day at work, feeling too tired to even think about meal prep. Then, I got a call from my mom announcing an impromptu dinner visit from my parents. A quick scan of the kitchen revealed a pack of frozen shrimp, some spaghetti, and garlic—basics that turned into a culinary lifesaver. In less than 30 minutes, I had whipped up a meal that not only impressed my folks but also secured its place as a family favorite.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and Italian seasoning to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping a bit of pasta water for later.
Sauté the Aromatics:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts and starts to sizzle.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to let it burn.
Cook the Shrimp:
Toss in the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together vigorously to ensure the pasta is coated in the garlicky, buttery sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Season and Serve:
Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt to taste. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese melts into the sauce.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.
Enjoy:
Serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests.
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta not only delivers on flavor but is also a testament to the joy of simple ingredients creating something wonderfully satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to, whether for an ordinary weeknight or a casual dinner party. Enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it!