This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is bright and creamy, bringing together juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and rich parmesan cheese. It’s a tasty dish that’s sure to impress!
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how fast it comes together, and the garlic aroma fills the kitchen. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a fancy dinner with friends. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually pick spaghetti or linguine for this dish because they pair well with the sauce. If you’re short on time or want a different texture, penne or farfalle also work nicely!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect, but if you can’t find them, medium shrimp will do. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best control over the dish’s seasoning. If you prefer, olive oil is a great substitute and adds a nice flavor too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor, but if you find yourself without it, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is always best. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, though the texture will be different.
How Can You Ensure Your Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be quick but tricky! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp. This helps achieve that nice sear.
- Cook the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side. They’ll turn pink and firm when done. Overcooking makes them rubbery!
- Remove the shrimp from heat as soon as they’re cooked, then cover them to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp to mix into your pasta dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Delicious Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Flavor Additions:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Extras:
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and another 10 minutes preparing the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add a pinch of salt, followed by the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to save 1/4 cup of the cooking water before you drain the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Toss in the shrimp, sprinkling them with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and fully cooked—remove them from the skillet and set aside!
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn—just until it’s fragrant!
4. Add Lemon Flavor:
Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring everything together. You should start to smell that fresh lemony goodness filling the kitchen!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss it around gently to coat the noodles in the flavorful butter sauce. If you find it’s a bit dry, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you hit the perfect consistency.
6. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until well mixed, with the cheese melting nicely into the dish.
7. Finish with Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix gently to combine. Take a moment to taste it—adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your lovely Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta right away. Top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, some chopped parsley, and lemon slices for an added touch of freshness!
Enjoy your delightful meal—it’s a wonderful combination of garlicky, cheesy, and zesty flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and shrimp in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and sauce in a skillet, adding a little water or broth to bring it back to life!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry, to keep the pasta creamy and flavorful.
Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese?
If you want to avoid dairy, nutritional yeast can be a good substitute for a cheesy flavor. Otherwise, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano cheese for a different twist. Just keep in mind that Pecorino is saltier than Parmesan, so adjust seasoning accordingly!
