If you are craving a dish that feels both luxurious and comfortingly simple, then this Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Rich garlic flavor, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together in a delightful dance of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds. Bright lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley add just the right pop, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you are cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results with a surprisingly quick and straightforward process.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side views of a silver frying pan containing raw and cooked shrimp. On the left side, the pan is filled with raw shrimp arranged in a circular pattern, all pale gray with slight pink accents and some sprinkled red chili flakes on top. On the right side, the shrimp are cooked to a bright orange color with firm texture, arranged evenly with the chili flakes still visible. Both pans are placed on a white marbled surface, and the pan’s metallic texture reflects some light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward, fresh ingredients that pack a punch when combined. Each one is essential to build the layers of flavor, ensuring every bite bursts with garlicky goodness, buttery richness, and a touch of zest and freshness.

8 ounces spaghetti: Classic pasta that serves as the perfect base, soaking up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Adds creaminess and helps carry the garlic and cheese flavors through the dish.
1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender and juicy, shrimp cooks quickly and makes this meal extra special.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors without overpowering.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Gives a subtle kick that balances the richness of butter and cheese.
4 garlic cloves (minced): The star of this recipe, delivering robust and aromatic flavor.
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and a savory depth to the sauce.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a fresh, tangy lift.
2 tablespoons chopped parsley: Provides a fresh herbal finish and lovely color contrast.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start with a large pot of boiling salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a fantastic secret ingredient that helps create a silky sauce later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp along with salt and crushed red pepper. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn an opaque pink. These quick seconds on each side lock in the shrimp’s juiciness and deliver a beautiful sear. Remove the shrimp and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about one minute. This step amplifies the garlic’s flavor without any bitterness. Next, stir in the parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water, combining everything to form a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly with the garlic parmesan sauce. Place the shrimp on top and give it one last gentle toss, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated and packed with flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve immediately while it’s warm and oh-so-delicious.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe

The image shows two stages of a pasta dish in two round metal pots side by side on a white marbled surface. The left pot holds a thick yellow sauce with small bits of brown and white, topped with a sprinkle of grated cheese that looks light and powdery, covering about half the surface. The right pot contains plain cooked spaghetti, pale yellow and soft in texture, loosely piled and slightly curved, filling the pot evenly. The light shines softly, highlighting the creamy look of the sauce and the smooth strands of pasta. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes take this Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe from delightful to irresistible. A handful of chopped fresh parsley adds a beautiful green pop and a subtle herbaceous aroma. For those who love heat, a tiny sprinkle of extra crushed red pepper flakes can add that welcomed spark. And don’t hesitate to shave a little more parmesan on top for that cheesy finish everyone loves.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the garlic shrimp spaghetti. Warm crusty bread or garlic bread on the side is also perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add an earthy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, try twirling the spaghetti into neat nests on each plate and carefully placing shrimp artfully atop. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or sprinkle microgreens to add an elegant touch. Serving this recipe in deep pasta bowls helps capture the sauce and makes the dining experience feel cozy and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp stay tender and the sauce holds up well, making for a wonderful next-day meal without losing flavor.

Freezing

Freezing pasta dishes with seafood can sometimes affect texture, but if needed, freeze the shrimp and sauce separate from the cooked spaghetti to maintain the best quality. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and combine gently before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between rounds to keep everything evenly warm and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your skillet.

What type of pasta works best?

While spaghetti is traditional and perfect here, you can also use linguine or fettuccine if you prefer a slightly different texture or shape.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a subtle kick thanks to the crushed red pepper, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it for a milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil and skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the creamy richness without dairy.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough, so timing is key.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe that makes it a treasured go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. The way simple, wholesome ingredients combine into a rich and flavorful masterpiece never gets old. I encourage you to dive in, follow the steps, and let this lovely meal fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with pure happiness. Once you try it, this recipe might just become one of your personal favorites too.