Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Parmesan

A bright, elegant dish that tastes like a restaurant favorite—but comes together in under 30 minutes

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Parmesan is one of those magical meals where simple ingredients create bold, memorable flavor. Juicy shrimp are quickly sautéed in olive oil and butter with fragrant garlic, then finished with fresh lemon juice and zest for brightness. Tossed with tender pasta and crowned with nutty Parmesan cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness. It’s light enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests.

Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to making this irresistible pasta at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best)
1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon (about 3–4 tbsp)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
¼ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—tender but still slightly firm.
Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Tip: Salting the water generously is key—it’s your first layer of flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps them sear properly and enhances their natural sweetness.