This elegant yet easy pasta dish is packed with juicy shrimp, golden garlic, and a buttery lemon-Parmesan finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.
INGREDIENT
AMOUNT
Spaghetti or linguine
8 oz Large shrimp (peeled &
deveined)
1lb
Unsalted butter
3 tbsp
Olive oil
2 tbsp
Garlic cloves (minced)
5
Red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp
Paprika
½ tsp
Black pepper
½ tsp
Salt ½ tsp (or to
taste)
Grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup
Fresh parsley (chopped)
2 tbsp
Lemon juice
From ½ lemon
Cook the pasta
Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
Season the shrimp
Toss shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sear the shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Bring it all together
Return shrimp to the skillet. Add drained pasta, Parmesan, lemon juice, and the remaining tablespoon of butter.
Toss everything gently to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky finish.
Garnish & serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot. Optional: add extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon at the table.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Add veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli.
Swap the protein: Try scallops or chicken for a twist.
