Easy One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta That Bursts With Flavor

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something truly satisfying about a meal that comes together effortlessly yet bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors—and that’s exactly what this One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta delivers. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a silky sauce infused with bright lemon and fragrant garlic, all melded perfectly with pasta cooked right in the same pot. After a long day, I wanted something quick but special, and this recipe felt like a little celebration waiting to happen on my plate. It’s a kitchen shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice taste and makes cleaning up a breeze, too. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends with minimal fuss, this dish checks all the boxes for flavor, speed, and pure comfort.

Why choose One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Effortless Cooking: This recipe’s one-pot magic means minimal prep and cleanup. Bright, zesty flavor shines with fresh lemon and garlic that wake up your taste buds. Juicy shrimp cook perfectly tender alongside pasta for a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Quick to make, it’s ideal for busy nights yet feels special enough for guests. Versatile and comforting, it’s a fresh twist on classic pasta that never disappoints.

One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

Pasta (e.g., linguine or spaghetti) – choose a shape that soaks up the garlicky, lemony sauce perfectly.
Chicken or vegetable broth – adds depth and cooks the pasta right in the pot, infusing flavor.
Fresh lemon juice – delivers that bright, zesty punch essential to One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta.
Olive oil – for sautéing garlic and shrimp, creating a silky base for the sauce.
Garlic cloves – minced to bring fragrant warmth and bold flavor throughout the dish.
Red pepper flakes – optional, for a gentle heat that balances the citrus notes.

For the Shrimp

Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined – cooks quickly and stays tender, making the dish protein-rich.
Salt and pepper – simple seasonings to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

For Garnish

Fresh parsley – chopped to add a burst of color and freshness right before serving.
Grated Parmesan cheese – optional, lends a creamy, savory finish that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully.

How to Make One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Heat Oil: Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, about 1 minute, until it shimmers and lightly coats the bottom, setting the stage for your flavorful sauce.
Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking just until fragrant and softly golden—around 1–2 minutes—to infuse that bright, savory base for your lemony sauce.
Pour Broth: Stir in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat for flavor depth.
Add Pasta: Gently press your pasta into the bubbling mixture, ensuring it’s mostly submerged. Reduce heat, simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until noodles are al dente, about 8 minutes.

For the Shrimp:

Season Shrimp: While pasta cooks, pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for a burst of savory-sweet flavor when added to your pasta.
Add Shrimp: Nestle seasoned shrimp into the simmering pasta and sauce. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes, turning once for even cooking and juicy texture.
Gently Toss: Using tongs, carefully stir shrimp and pasta together until the silky sauce thickens slightly and clings to every strand, creating a glossy coating bursting with lemon-garlic goodness.
Plate: Divide the pasta and shrimp among bowls or plates. Top with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, serving immediately for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Optional: Serve with extra lemon wedges for added brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta meals are ideal for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to retain freshness. When it’s time to finish the dish, simply reheat the pasta sauce in a pan over medium heat, then add the seasoned shrimp and cook until they turn pink, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This strategy not only saves you time on busy weeknights, but also delivers just as delicious results while keeping things simple and satisfying!

How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth for moisture.

Freezer: Freeze leftovers in individual portions for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Stir occasionally while warming to ensure the sauce remains creamy and pasta doesn’t dry out.

Tip: This One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but storing it correctly keeps those delightful flavors intact!

What to Serve with One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Complement your dish with an array of fresh and delightful sides that enhance your culinary experience.

Crispy Garlic Bread: A golden, buttery loaf infused with garlic complements the savory notes and soaks up every last drop of that luscious sauce.
Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette bring brightness to the plate, balancing the rich flavors of the pasta. Fresh cucumbers and cherry tomatoes add a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt offer a lovely, earthy contrast to the bright lemon and garlic.
Lemon Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon harmonizes beautifully with the pasta, adding a nutritious and hearty element to the meal.
Fizzy Lemonade: A refreshing, tangy lemonade pairs perfectly with the dish, enhancing the citrus notes and providing a delightful pick-me-up.
Parmesan Crisps: Light and crunchy, these cheese crisps add a salty bite that complements the creamy aspect of the shrimp pasta, offering satisfying texture.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with a touch of indulgence, creating a sweet finale to your dining experience.

Expert Tips for One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make all the difference, amplifying bright flavors that bring this dish to life. Avoid bottled lemon juice for best results.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—stop as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy, a key to great One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta.
Stir Pasta Frequently: Stirring prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking in the broth, giving you that perfect al dente texture with a luscious sauce.
Adjust Broth for Thickness: If the sauce seems too thin, simmer a little longer uncovered; too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Patting shrimp dry before seasoning helps them sear nicely instead of steaming, which boosts their flavor and texture in this one-pot dish.

Variations & Substitutions for One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Feel free to personalize this dish to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, ensuring it cooks properly in the broth for a seamless dish.
Vegan: Use plant-based shrimp or sautéed mushrooms and replace the broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegan twist.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce that adds an indulgent touch.
Extra Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill instead of parsley for a delightful flavor spin that keeps it fresh and exciting.
Heat It Up: Add a dash of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the sauté for a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese just before serving for a tangy, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the lemon and garlic.
Lemon Substitutes: Try lime juice or a splash of white wine for a different citrusy zing that transforms the overall profile.

One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I know if the shrimp is fresh and ready for cooking?
Look for shrimp that’s firm, translucent, and slightly shiny with no dark spots or an ammonia-like smell. Fresh shrimp should feel moist but not slimy. I always recommend buying peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and even cooking in this recipe.

Can I store leftover One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce so the pasta doesn’t dry out. It’s just as delicious the next day with a quick simmer.

Is it possible to freeze this pasta dish? If so, what’s the best way?
Yes, freezing works well if you follow the right steps! Let the pasta cool completely after cooking, then portion it into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label them with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, move the portion to the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring often to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

What should I do if my pasta is sticking or the sauce seems too watery?
No worries—stirring frequently during cooking is key to prevent sticking. If the sauce is too watery, simply simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it. Conversely, if it’s too thick, just add a little extra broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the perfect consistency.

Are there any dietary restrictions or allergy tips I should keep in mind?
This recipe contains shellfish, so it’s not suitable for those with shrimp or seafood allergies. For dairy-sensitive folks, skip the Parmesan garnish or use a dairy-free alternative. Also, if you want to make it vegan, try swapping shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth to keep it flavorful and plant-based.