Shrimp Spaghetti – This spaghetti shrimp consist of tender juicy shrimp, sautéed in a luscious garlic-butter sauce, perfectly balanced with a hint of zesty lemon and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Tossed with al dente spaghetti and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for quick weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
This Shrimp Spaghetti recipe combines fresh, juicy shrimp with a light yet flavorful sauce made from garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and a hint of white wine or lemon. It’s a harmonious blend of bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, it’s a dish that feels luxurious without being overly complicated.
The Perfect Shrimp Spaghetti Sauce
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must; it adds a depth of flavor that can’t be replicated.
Butter & Olive Oil combo: Butter brings richness, olive oil helps prevent burning.
Lemon zing: Just a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the whole dish.
To spice or not to spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, but it’s totally optional.
Pasta water: Reserve a cup of the starchy water you cooked the pasta in – it’s the magic ingredient for a silky, flavorful sauce.
Variations to Try
Shrimp Spaghetti is incredibly versatile. Here are some creative variations to explore:
- Creamy Shrimp Spaghetti
Add heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a creamy, indulgent version. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can further enhance the richness. - Spicy Shrimp Spaghetti
Love heat? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. - Mediterranean Twist
Toss in ingredients like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or crumbled feta for a Mediterranean-inspired take. - Shrimp and Spinach Spaghetti
Add fresh spinach to the sauce just before serving for added nutrients and a pop of green. - Gluten-Free Shrimp Spaghetti
Swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Storing and Reheating Shrimp Spaghetti
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for a quick meal later.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Shrimp Spaghetti can be frozen, but the pasta may lose its texture. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
How to Serve Shrimp Spaghetti
Pairing and presentation matter when serving this delectable dish.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp and garlic sauce beautifully.
- Finishing Touches: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Spaghetti?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. What’s the best type of pasta to use?
Traditional spaghetti is classic, but you can experiment with linguine, angel hair pasta, or even fettuccine.
3. Can I make Shrimp Spaghetti ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the sauce ahead and cook the pasta just before serving. Combine everything just before eating for the best taste and texture.
4. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Skip the Parmesan cheese and cream (if used) for a dairy-free version. Focus on olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for flavor.
5. Is Shrimp Spaghetti healthy?
Yes, especially when made with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, and whole-grain pasta. It’s a protein-rich, balanced meal that can fit into most healthy eating plans.
Shrimp Spaghetti (15 Minutes)
Shrimp Spaghetti - This spaghetti shrimp consist of tender juicy shrimp, sautéed in a luscious garlic-butter sauce, perfectly balanced with a hint of zesty lemon and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Tossed with al dente spaghetti and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb med-large shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 7 oz spaghetti long pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Garnish
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Lemon juice, optional
Instructions
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Heat a pot of water over high heat, bring water to boil. Add salt and cook the pasta until al-dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp of butter. Add shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tbsp butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and stir cook until lightly golden brown, stir in the red pepper flakes and mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta with 1/2 cup of pasta water. Combine well.
- Add the cooked shrimp, season with salt and stir to combine.
- Cook until the pasta has aborbed most of the sauce.
- Remove from the heat and add freshly chopped parsley.
- Garnish with parmesan cheese and lemon juice and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 500Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 38mgSodium 173mgCarbohydrates 53gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 11g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Check my other shrimp recipes:
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Spaghetti is a dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. With its fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and endless variations, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a quiet dinner at home, this recipe delivers every time.
