Picture this: tender, juicy shrimp bathed in a silky garlic-lemon butter sauce, twirled with perfectly al dente pasta and topped with a shower of Parmesan. It’s bright, fragrant, and indulgent without being heavy—a total weeknight hero or special occasion showstopper.

If you love simple, flavorful meals that feel like a treat, this Garlic and Lemon Shrimp Pasta is about to become your go-to. Trust me, each bite is bursting with garlicky goodness, a hint of fresh herbs, and that perfect kiss of lemon that keeps it light and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Name: Garlic and Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

This isn’t just shrimp pasta—it’s a quick, flavorful, and elegant dinner that feels fancy but is actually incredibly easy to make. Here’s why it will be a favorite:

Quick and Simple: On the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
Light yet Satisfying: The lemon and garlic keep it fresh, while butter and Parmesan give richness.
Flexible: Works with spaghetti, linguini, bucatini, or your favorite pasta shape.
Customizable Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
Crowd-Pleasing: Kids, adults, and seafood lovers alike will devour this.

Recipe Origin

Inspired by the classic Italian “shrimp scampi” but simplified for modern home kitchens, this dish balances bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender shrimp in a buttery sauce. It’s perfect for when you want a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet for shrimp and sauce
Wooden spoon or tongs
Zester or microplane for lemon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients in Garlic and Lemon Shrimp Pasta

Here’s the breakdown of what makes this pasta irresistible:

Pasta

Any long pasta—spaghetti, linguini, or bucatini—works. It’s the perfect vehicle for soaking up that garlicky, buttery sauce.

Shrimp

Fresh or thawed large shrimp, peeled and deveined, are the star. Tender and juicy when cooked just right, they absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Olive Oil and Butter

Extra-virgin olive oil adds a smooth base, while butter enriches the sauce for that silky texture you’ll want to lick off the plate.

Garlic

Minced garlic is essential for aromatic flavor. Sauté it gently to release its fragrance without burning.

Lemon

Fresh juice and zest brighten the dish, giving it that signature tang that complements the richness of the butter.

Fresh Herbs

Basil and parsley add freshness and a pop of green that makes the dish visually stunning.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, creating a creamy coating that clings to every strand of pasta. Extra for sprinkling on top is highly recommended.

Seasonings

Kosher salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes round out the flavor profile.

(Note: full measurements are included in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s walk through making this flavorful pasta:

Preheat Your Equipment

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. Cooking pasta in well-salted water enhances flavor from the start.

Cook the Pasta

Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—it’s perfect for loosening the sauce later.

Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add lemon juice, zest, and chopped herbs, stirring to combine.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light, glossy sauce.

Add Parmesan

Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and toss until pasta is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate your pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley or basil. Serve immediately with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 400–450 (depending on pasta and butter)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Garlic and Lemon Shrimp Pasta

With Salad: Pair with a light green salad tossed in vinaigrette to balance the richness.
As a Meal Prep Option: Store in airtight containers for 2–3 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking shrimp.
For Dinner Parties: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlicky, buttery sauce.
Optional Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemony shrimp beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Cook pasta and shrimp separately and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of pasta water.
Leftovers store well in airtight containers in the fridge for 2–3 days. Avoid overcooking when reheating shrimp—it can turn rubbery.

Variations to Try

Spicy Twist: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic to 4 cloves for extra punch.
Herb Swap: Try dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or scallops if preferred.
Vegetable Boost: Add cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Additional Tips

Don’t overcook shrimp—they cook quickly and are done when pink and firm.
Reserve pasta water—it helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
Toss everything just before serving to keep shrimp tender and pasta coated evenly.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes—just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the sauce.

Q2: Can I use pre-minced garlic?
A2: You can, but fresh garlic gives the most vibrant flavor.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Partially—cook pasta and shrimp separately, store, then combine and reheat gently.

Q4: How do I prevent overcooking shrimp?
A4: Cook them 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so watch closely.

Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
A5: Use olive oil instead of butter and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Q6: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A6: Absolutely—linguini, fettuccine, or bucatini all work wonderfully.

Q7: Can I add vegetables?
A7: Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini make it even more nutritious.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?
A8: Yes—just use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Q9: Can I freeze this pasta?
A9: Not recommended—the shrimp can get rubbery. Store in the fridge and enjoy within 2–3 days.

Q10: Can I add cream?
A10: For a richer sauce, a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half works beautifully.

Conclusion

Garlic and Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a perfect blend of bright, fresh flavors and comforting richness. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Each bite offers tender shrimp, garlicky butter, zesty lemon, and silky pasta that will keep everyone coming back for more. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and Parmesan, and you’ve got a dish that’s both simple and unforgettable.