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Easy One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Best 20-Minute Dinner

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This bright and satisfying one-pan pasta comes together in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients like shrimp, lemon, garlic, and butter. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients first. Mince the garlic, zest and juice the lemon, chop the parsley, and grate the Parmesan. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the shrimp. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  3. Build the flavor base. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Add the liquid and pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine, pressing it down gently so it’s submerged.
  5. Cook the pasta. Reduce the heat to a steady simmer. Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Finish the dish. Turn off the heat. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan along with the lemon zest and half of the grated Parmesan. Toss everything together with tongs until the cheese is melted and the sauce coats the pasta.
  7. Taste and adjust. Add salt and black pepper as needed. Add a squeeze more lemon if desired.
  8. Serve immediately. Divide the pasta among bowls. Top with the remaining Parmesan and a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry for best sear. Don’t overcook garlic. Trust the pasta water to create a silky sauce. Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked. For a creamy version, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end. Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra vegetables. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan pasta, lemon garlic shrimp pasta, quick dinner, weeknight dinner, shrimp pasta, easy pasta recipe

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/easy-one-pan-lemon-garlic-shrimp-pasta-best-20-minute-dinner/