Few dishes capture the essence of comfort and sophistication quite like shrimp spaghetti. This delightful combination of succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce makes for a meal that is both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Originating from the Mediterranean coast, shrimp spaghetti is a staple in Italian and seafood-loving households alike, offering a balance of freshness and indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Preparation
To create this mouthwatering shrimp spaghetti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients:

- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Preparation Steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour white wine into the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Create the Sauce: Add cherry tomatoes, broth, and lemon juice. Simmer until tomatoes soften (about 5 minutes). Stir in butter for a silky texture.
- Combine Everything: Return shrimp to the pan, then toss in the drained pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish with Freshness: Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Techniques

- Sautéing the shrimp in olive oil enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a slightly crisp texture.
- Deglazing with wine not only adds depth to the sauce but also helps lift the caramelized bits for extra flavor.
- Using pasta water in the sauce helps bind the ingredients together and creates a luxurious, restaurant-quality consistency.
Serving and Presentation
To elevate your shrimp spaghetti, consider these serving tips:

- Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon zest for a vibrant finish.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread or a light Caesar salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the dish’s citrusy and seafood notes.
Health Benefits
- Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.
- Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
- Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and supports immune health.
Personal Anecdotes and Tips
I first discovered shrimp spaghetti on a trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where the combination of fresh seafood and simple ingredients created an unforgettable experience. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—you can customize it by adding spinach, capers, or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist. A quick tip: If you want a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end for extra richness.

Conclusion
Shrimp spaghetti is a dish that brings elegance to everyday cooking without requiring hours in the kitchen. The balance of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a bright, flavorful sauce makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a family feast, this dish guarantees a satisfying meal. Try it today, and let the flavors transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean!
Other easy Seafood recipes you may like:
Seafood Boil Seasoning Done Right: 5 Proven Techniques
Best Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe: Rich, Flavorful & Easy
Seafood Tower: The Ultimate Showstopper for Your Next Feast
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What pasta works best with this dish?
Spaghetti is the classic choice, but you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair for a lighter texture.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the butter and Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
Try adding a splash of fish sauce, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a handful of fresh basil leaves for an extra layer of depth.
What can I serve with shrimp spaghetti?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish.

Shrimp Spaghetti recipe
Equipment
- Large pot For boiling spaghetti
- Large Skillet For sautéing shrimp and making the sauce
- Colander To drain the pasta
- Tongs For tossing the pasta with the sauce
Ingredients
- 8 oz Spaghetti
- 1 lb Large Shrimp Peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil Extra virgin
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat
- 1/2 cup Dry White Wine Such as Sauvignon Blanc
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
- 1/2 cup Chicken or Seafood Broth
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed
- 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped
- – – Salt & Black Pepper To taste
- – – Grated Parmesan Cheese For servingoptional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour white wine into the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Add cherry tomatoes, broth, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes until tomatoes soften. Stir in butter.
- Combine Everything: Return shrimp to the pan and toss in drained pasta. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in chopped parsley and season to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works too—just thaw and dry before cooking.
- Swap out white wine with extra broth for an alcohol-free version.
- Customize with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or a splash of cream for variation.
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