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Homemade Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta recipe photo

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! A perfect weeknight dinner that will impress everyone.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Easy, Pasta, Quick, Seafood
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine pasta

For the Sauce:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined fresh or frozen
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • 1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
  • 2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  • 3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
  • 4. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the delicious garlic and cheese mixture.
  • 5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Customize with your favorite vegetables for added flavor.
  • Use fresh shrimp for the best taste; thaw frozen shrimp properly.
  • Don’t skip the reserved pasta water for a creamy sauce.