Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a delightful and aromatic dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It features succulent shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic and butter sauce, paired with a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce that has a refreshing citrus zing from lemon. The pasta soaks up all these wonderful flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and tangy flavors. The shrimp add a sweet and savory depth, while the Parmesan and lemon create a deliciously rich and tangy sauce. It’s simple to prepare, requiring just a few key ingredients, yet the result feels elevated and special. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the shrimp:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Let the butter melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
4. Add Parmesan and pasta water:
   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy base. If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine pasta and shrimp:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Return the shrimp to the skillet, mixing everything together. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish and serve:
   Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

You can add your personal touch to this dish by trying one of these variations:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to add more color and flavor to the dish.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Substitute Shrimp: Swap the shrimp for chicken breast, scallops, or even a plant-based protein like tofu for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming too dry?

If the pasta starts to dry out, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water while tossing it with the sauce. The starchy water will help create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.

Can I make the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the shrimp in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before combining them with the pasta. Just reheat the shrimp when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use another type of cheese besides Parmesan?

While Parmesan gives this dish its signature flavor, you can also use Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you prefer a different cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might change slightly.

Can I add more lemon?

If you love lemon, feel free to increase the amount of lemon zest and juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe without butter?

If you want to make the recipe dairy-free or reduce the fat, you can omit the butter and use extra olive oil or a non-dairy butter substitute instead.

How can I make this dish even creamier?

To make the sauce richer, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the Parmesan. This will create a velvety smooth sauce.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that combines fresh ingredients with bold, savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. With its creamy sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and zesty lemon kick, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to. Enjoy the flavors of this classic Italian-inspired dish any time you’re in the mood for something delicious!

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