Discover the perfect easy garlic shrimp spaghetti recipe for busy nights. Ready in just 15 minutes, this delicious meal will become your go-to favorite!
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Look no further! Our easy garlic shrimp spaghetti recipe is here to save your weeknight dinners. This mouthwatering dish combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a flavorful garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Quick and Easy Meal
Let’s face it โ we all have those nights when we’re hungry but don’t have much in the fridge. That’s where this garlic shrimp spaghetti comes to the rescue. It’s the perfect solution for busy families, working professionals, or anyone who wants a delicious homemade meal without the fuss.
This recipe uses minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With frozen shrimp, pasta, garlic, and a few other staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. It’s not only quick and easy but also budget-friendly!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy garlic shrimp spaghetti:
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Frozen shrimp | 1 pound |
Spaghetti | 1 package |
Butter | 4 tablespoons |
Garlic cloves | 4 |
Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Parmesan cheese | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Crushed red pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Parsley | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready let’s cook! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious garlic shrimp spaghetti.
1. Thaw and Prepare the Shrimp
Start by thawing your frozen shrimp. Place them in cold water for about five minutes. While they’re thawing, you can begin boiling water for your pasta. Once the shrimp are thawed, peel them and remove the tails.
2. Cook the Pasta
Add your spaghetti to a pot of heavily salted boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to save a cup of pasta water before draining โ we’ll use this later!
3. Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, or they might become rubbery. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a bowl and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining two tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and one cup of the reserved pasta water. This mixture will create a light, flavorful sauce for your pasta.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated. Then, add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and give it all a good mix.
Serve your garlic shrimp spaghetti in a large bowl. Garnish with some fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. And there you have it โ a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes!
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti
To make sure your easy garlic shrimp spaghetti turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They only need a few minutes on each side until they turn pink.
- Use the pasta water in your sauce. It helps create a silky texture and helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
- Feel free to adjust the garlic amount to your liking. Some people love extra garlic flavor!
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can use milk instead of pasta water. However, the pasta water keeps things light and fresh.
- Always keep some frozen shrimp and pasta in your kitchen. With these staples on hand, you can whip up this meal anytime.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights
Photo Credit: freepik
This easy garlic shrimp spaghetti recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. You don’t need to be a master chef to create this impressive dish โ it’s perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and garlicky, lemony sauce creates a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s light enough for a summer dinner but comforting enough for colder months. Plus, it’s versatile โ you can easily add vegetables or switch up the protein to suit your preferences.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner
Say goodbye to stressful weeknight dinners and hello to this easy garlic shrimp spaghetti recipe. In just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table that the whole family will love. It’s proof that fast food doesn’t have to come from a drive-thru โ it can be made right in your kitchen!
So next time you’re faced with a bare fridge and a growling stomach, remember this recipe. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try tonight and taste the magic of this 15-minute dinner hack!
Ready to get cooking? Grab your apron, and let’s make some irresistible garlic shrimp spaghetti. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!
FAQs
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp. Just skip the thawing step. Cook them the same way as the recipe suggests.
How long does this dish keep in the fridge?
It’s best eaten fresh. But you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Sure! Add more crushed red pepper flakes or use cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace shrimp with vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a veggie version.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any long pasta like linguine or fettuccine works well in this recipe.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
Use milk or heavy cream instead of pasta water for a richer, creamier sauce.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
While it’s quick to make fresh, it can be prepared ahead. Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I add other seafood to this dish?
Yes, you can add scallops or chunks of fish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Photo Credit: freepik