Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti
A quick and delicious pasta dish featuring garlic, succulent shrimp, and a buttery sauce that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti Standard spaghetti, preferably whole wheat for a healthier option.
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided Use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper Modify to your preferred spice level.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed lemon juice preferred.
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese Adjust to taste or omit for a dairy-free option.
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped parsley Fresh parsley for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and reserve about one cup of pasta water.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter.
- Add the shrimp, salt, and crushed red pepper, cooking until the shrimp turn opaque pink (about 2 to 3 minutes). Set the shrimp aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (around 1 minute).
- Turn off the heat and add lemon juice and reserved pasta water, stirring to create a garlic sauce.
- Mix in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, mix again, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
For a fancier presentation, serve directly from the skillet or plate individually. Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.