Print

Easy One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

one-pot lemon garlic shrimp pasta - featured image

A quick and flavorful one-pot pasta dish featuring zesty lemon, garlic, and succulent shrimp, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large size)
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Mince garlic, zest and juice the lemon, and chop parsley. Measure out broth and water. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
  2. Heat the pan: Place your large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the shrimp: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  4. Add liquids and pasta: Pour chicken broth, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the same pan. Bring to a gentle boil and add pasta, pressing it down so it’s mostly submerged. Stir immediately to prevent sticking.
  5. Simmer and cook pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover loosely with a lid, and let pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to keep it from sticking.
  6. Finish the sauce: When pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter for richness. Return shrimp to the pan and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice if desired.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and offer grated Parmesan on the side. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

If pasta looks dry before fully cooked, add a splash of water or broth. Stir often to prevent sticking and burning. Use room temperature shrimp for even cooking. Fresh lemon zest and juice are key for bright flavor. For gluten-free, swap pasta with gluten-free varieties. For dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil and omit Parmesan or use plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, shrimp pasta, lemon garlic shrimp, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, weeknight meal, seafood pasta