Do you want a pasta dish that tastes like a restaurant but is easy to make at home? This shrimp spaghetti recipe is full of creamy, garlicky flavors. It’s the best choice for a quick weeknight dinner, ready in 30 minutes.
Table of Contents

Shrimp Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking the spaghetti
- Large skillet For cooking the shrimp and sauce
- Colander For draining the pasta
- Wooden spoon For stirring the sauce
- Knife For chopping ingredients
- Cutting board For preparing ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Combine Everything
- Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
- Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
This garlic shrimp spaghetti will make your family and friends think it’s from a fancy restaurant. It’s that good!
Key Takeaways
- Creamy, garlic-infused shrimp spaghetti that’s easy to make at home
- Perfectly cooked spaghetti paired with succulent shrimp in a rich butter sauce
- Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick and delicious weeknight meal
- Ideal for impressing your family and friends with restaurant-quality pasta
- Customize the recipe to your taste with various shrimp and pasta options
Ingredients for the Perfect Shrimp Spaghetti
To make the best shrimp spaghetti, pick the right ingredients. You might want a creamy shrimp spaghetti alfredo, a zesty tomato sauce, or a savory marinara. Use fresh, quality ingredients to make your dish amazing.
Key Ingredients for Shrimp Spaghetti
For a tasty shrimp spaghetti, you need a few key things:
- Shrimp: Choose 1-2 pounds of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp (21-30 count per pound) for great taste and texture.
- Pasta: Use linguine or spaghetti as the perfect base for your shrimp dish.
- Butter and Olive Oil: These fats help sauté the shrimp and make the dish richer.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential, adding a great aroma to the sauce.
- Dairy: Milk or heavy cream, along with Parmesan cheese, make a creamy sauce.
- Seasonings: Add salt, pepper, and a secret ingredient – smoked paprika – for extra flavor.

Choosing the Right Pasta and Shrimp
The quality of your pasta and shrimp matters a lot. Choose high-quality Italian pasta for a firm texture and delicate flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking for the best taste.
Ingredient | Nutritional Information (per serving) |
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Shrimp |
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Spaghetti |
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Parmesan Cheese |
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How to Make Shrimp Spaghetti Step-by-Step
Want a tasty shrimp spaghetti dish? You’re in the right place! We’ll show you how to make two yummy versions. You’ll learn to make a classic garlic butter shrimp spaghetti and a spicy one.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
Add butter and olive oil to the skillet. Then, put in the shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they’re pink and done, about 2-3 minutes each side. Take the shrimp out and set them aside.
In the same skillet, cook minced garlic until it smells good, about 1 minute. Add some pasta water to make a creamy sauce. Mix in more butter and Parmesan cheese until it’s thick.
Now, add the cooked spaghetti and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until it’s well coated. Top with chopped parsley and serve right away for a tasty shrimp spaghetti aglio olio dish.
Spicy Shrimp Spaghetti with a Kick
For a spicy version, follow the garlic butter steps but add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic. This adds a nice heat to your shrimp spaghetti. You can also use crumbled feta or shredded Asiago instead of Parmesan for more flavor.
Remember, the secret to great shrimp spaghetti is to save some pasta water. This water makes the sauce smooth and sticks to the noodles. Enjoy your homemade shrimp spaghetti recipes with white wine for a special treat.

Shrimp Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking the spaghetti
- Large skillet For cooking the shrimp and sauce
- Colander For draining the pasta
- Wooden spoon For stirring the sauce
- Knife For chopping ingredients
- Cutting board For preparing ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Combine Everything
- Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
- Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
Shrimp Spaghetti Variations You’ll Love
Shrimp spaghetti is a dish you can make your own. You can choose from creamy Alfredo sauce to lighter options. Let’s look at some tasty variations that will be hits with your family.
Creamy Shrimp Spaghetti Recipes
For a rich twist, try a creamy Alfredo-style shrimp spaghetti. Mix cooked spaghetti with garlic Parmesan sauce and shrimp. You can also try lemon-garlic or spicy cajun cream sauces for more flavor.
Shrimp Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Want a low-carb version? Use spaghetti squash instead of pasta. It’s sweet and pairs well with shrimp and your favorite sauce, like garlic-herb or tomato.
Healthy and Light Shrimp Spaghetti Options
For a healthy shrimp spaghetti, use whole wheat or veggie pasta. Pair it with a light sauce. Try lemon-garlic or a Mediterranean mix with cherry tomatoes and basil. Add sautéed veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Choosing the right ingredients and not overcooking the shrimp makes shrimp spaghetti great. With a bit of creativity, you can make this dish a new family favorite.
Popular Shrimp Spaghetti Combinations
Try new flavors in your shrimp spaghetti. Add crispy salami or spicy Italian sausage for extra taste. These meats match well with the shrimp’s sweetness.
Want a fuller meal? Mix in ground beef or turkey. They add protein and make the dish more filling.
Shrimp Spaghetti with Salami and Sausage
Make your shrimp spaghetti better with salami and Italian sausage. Their salty taste goes great with the shrimp’s softness. It’s a tasty and satisfying dish.
Shrimp Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Turkey
Need a heartier shrimp spaghetti? Add ground beef or turkey. They add protein and taste good with the shrimp. It’s a filling meal.
Chicken and Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
Try a chicken and shrimp spaghetti for a tasty mix. The chicken and shrimp offer different textures and tastes. The spaghetti holds it all together.
Feel free to mix things up in your shrimp spaghetti. You might like a hello fresh shrimp spaghetti with a kick, a zesty lemon shrimp spaghetti, or a creamy shrimp spaghetti squash alfredo. Find your new favorite dish today!
Quick and Easy Shrimp Spaghetti Recipes
If you’re craving shrimp spaghetti but don’t have hours to cook, these recipes are perfect. You can choose from a classic garlic-butter version or a spicy twist. These ideas make a tasty meal fast.
Easy Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
For a tasty shrimp spaghetti, sauté shrimp and garlic in olive oil. Add hot spaghetti, olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. This easy shrimp spaghetti recipe is ready in 20 minutes.
Instant Pot Shrimp Spaghetti
This Instant Pot version makes shrimp spaghetti quicker. Cook spaghetti with chicken broth, then add shrimp and tomato sauce. The pressure cooker makes the pasta flavorful and keeps shrimp juicy. This Instant Pot shrimp spaghetti is great for busy nights.
Simple Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe for Beginners
For a beginner-friendly shrimp spaghetti, use pre-cooked shrimp and marinara sauce. Mix cooked spaghetti, shrimp, and sauce. Add Parmesan cheese and basil. You can also add steamed broccoli. This simple shrimp spaghetti recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
Choosing any easy shrimp spaghetti recipe will give you a delicious pasta dish fast. With shrimp, spaghetti, and various sauces, you can make many tasty meals quickly.
Gourmet Shrimp Spaghetti Ideas
Make your shrimp spaghetti special with these fancy recipe ideas. Try a cajun shrimp spaghetti with Creole spices and creamy sauce. Or, go for a shrimp scampi spaghetti with white wine garlic butter and fresh herbs. For a big flavor, try the Hello Fresh shrimp spaghetti with a kick for a mix of chili peppers and lemon.
Hello Fresh Shrimp Spaghetti with a Kick
This dish from Hello Fresh is full of flavor. It needs 12 oz spaghetti, 1 lb shrimp, 2 cloves garlic, 1/4 tsp red pepper, and 1/3 cup pasta liquid. It’s creamy, spicy, and ready in 20 minutes with parsley and Parmesan on top.
For a cajun shrimp spaghetti twist, cook the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, garlic, and white wine. Then, add a creamy sauce and serve over spaghetti. The shrimp scampi spaghetti is also great. It’s easy and fancy with garlic-wine butter, parsley, and Parmesan.
Choosing any of these shrimp spaghetti recipes will wow your guests. They’re perfect for making your pasta night unforgettable.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Spaghetti
Make your creamy shrimp spaghetti and garlic butter shrimp spaghetti recipes better with these tips. To make great garlic shrimp spaghetti, balance flavors and textures well.
How to Cook Shrimp Spaghetti Perfectly
Timing is everything when cooking shrimp spaghetti. Shrimp cook fast and get tough if overcooked. Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness.
For the creamiest sauce, use fresh Parmesan. Don’t use pre-shredded cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Shrimp Pasta
- Don’t forget to season the pasta water well. Salt it generously to add flavor to the pasta.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, as it will soften in the sauce.
- Don’t use too much sauce. Let the shrimp, garlic, and pasta shine – not too much creamy sauce.
For the best garlic butter shrimp spaghetti, balance is key. You should taste the shrimp, garlic, and pasta in each bite. Follow these tips to make amazing creamy shrimp spaghetti at home.

Nutritional Information for Shrimp Spaghetti
Are you curious about the nutritional value of your shrimp spaghetti dishes? Whether you’re enjoying a classic shrimp spaghetti a la camille, a creamy lemon pepper shrimp spaghetti, or even a heartier ground beef and shrimp spaghetti creation, it’s important to understand the calorie content and healthier ingredient options.
Calories in Shrimp Spaghetti
A typical serving of shrimp spaghetti (around 1 cup) contains about 370 to 450 calories. This depends on the specific recipe. This dish is a good source of protein from the shrimp and carbs from the pasta. It makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
Healthier Ingredient Substitutes
To make your shrimp spaghetti a bit more health-conscious, consider these simple ingredient swaps:
- Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta for an extra fiber boost.
- Opt for olive oil instead of butter to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Load up on fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to add more nutrients and fiber.
- For a lower-calorie option, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of traditional pasta.
Remember, the key to enjoying your favorite shrimp spaghetti dishes is moderation. By making a few simple tweaks to the ingredients, you can create a healthier version that still satisfies your cravings. Pair it with a fresh salad or a light side dish for a well-balanced meal.
“Moderation is the key when it comes to enjoying creamy, flavorful shrimp spaghetti. With a few healthy swaps, you can indulge in your favorite pasta dish while keeping your nutritional goals in check.”
Regional and International Twists on Shrimp Spaghetti
Get ready for a journey around the world with shrimp spaghetti. We’ll see flavors from Italy to North Africa. These dishes will take your taste buds on exciting trips.
Italian Shrimp Spaghetti
In Italy, shrimp spaghetti is simple yet tasty. It’s made with olive oil, garlic, and fresh shrimp. hello fresh shrimp spaghetti shows how Italian cooking can be so good.
Tunisian Shrimp Spaghetti
In North Africa, Tunisian shrimp spaghetti is bold. It has harissa, a spicy mix of chili, garlic, and spices. The shrimp and spaghetti cook in a tomato sauce, adding a fiery touch.
Paula Deen Shrimp Spaghetti
For a Southern twist, try Paula Deen’s shrimp spaghetti salad. It’s creamy with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan. It’s a rich, comforting dish that’s hard to resist.
Looking for something light or spicy? Shrimp spaghetti has it all. Try a baked shrimp spaghetti casserole or a chilled salad for a fresh twist.
Conclusion: Try Your Favorite Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe Today
Now you know a lot about shrimp spaghetti. It’s time to start cooking! You can make a classic butter shrimp spaghetti or try something spicy like bang bang shrimp spaghetti. The most important thing is to have fun and make it your own.
Don’t forget to share your dishes on social media. We’d love to see your best shrimp spaghetti recipe!
Share Your Shrimp Spaghetti Creations
Cooking is all about trying new things and finding your style. So, don’t be shy to add your own twist to this tasty shrimp spaghetti dish. Share your creations with the world and inspire others to be creative in the kitchen.
Explore More Pasta Recipes
This is just the start of your pasta journey. There are so many delicious pasta recipes out there. From classic Italian dishes to international flavors, you can try anything. Keep an open mind, try new recipes, and let your taste buds lead the way.