One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

If you crave a weeknight dinner that dazzles with zesty flavors and comes together in just one pot, this One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the answer. The bold brightness of lemon pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic, all nestled in perfectly cooked pasta. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a restaurant-quality result–this dish is sure to become a new staple for any home cook pressed for time but not willing to compromise on taste.

What Makes This Pasta a Weeknight Wonder

Combining the ease of a one-pot meal with the elegance of a classic shrimp scampi, this recipe impresses with juicy shrimp, a silky lemon garlic sauce, and al dente pasta—all cooked together so the flavors meld beautifully. The fresh lemon zest cuts through the richness, while garlic and herbs add a deep savory note. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is vibrant, and ready in just under 30 minutes.

Building Big Flavor: The Best Lemon Garlic Sauce

Getting the most out of the sauce is all about technique. Sauté the garlic until just golden—not brown—so it retains sweetness. Add the shrimp and let them sear quickly before deglazing with lemon juice and a splash of pasta water for that coveted silky finish. A squeeze of extra lemon and a toss of fresh parsley at the end keeps the dish tasting fresh and lively.

Tip: Prepping garlic and onions can be a breeze with the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper. It ensures even, quick chopping, freeing up your time for the rest of the recipe.

Streamlined Prep and Cooking

Cooking the pasta right in the sauce means it soaks up every drop of citrusy, garlicky flavor—and saves on washing up. Start by sautéeing in a large pan, then simply add broth and your favorite dried pasta. Simmer until the liquid’s mostly absorbed and the pasta is perfectly cooked. Using a nonstick pan, such as the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch, lets you toss the pasta and shrimp confidently, knowing nothing will stick or burn.

To measure out the right amount of pasta or shrimp, try the Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display. This useful tool ensures foolproof portioning for perfect results every time.

Serving & Storing Your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Serve directly from pot to plate, garnished with extra lemon zest and freshly chopped parsley. For on-the-go lunches, portion leftovers into an airtight container—something like the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5—to keep them fresh and leak-free.

If you want to dress your table for company or keep things clean for a family night in, the Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack makes cleanup a snap.

Nutritional Information & Serving Size

This dish serves four generous portions, with each serving providing approximately 400–500 calories. It’s packed with lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats—light enough for a summer meal, yet comforting any time of year.

One Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta (Recap)

This vibrant pasta proves that weeknight simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With plump shrimp, zesty lemon, and the sweet scent of garlic all in one pot, it’s an elegant meal that’s quick enough for busy nights, and impressive enough for guests.

Instructions

1. Heat the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. Add olive oil, then sauté onion for 2 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove shrimp to a plate.
3. Pour in the broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, then scatter the dried pasta into the pot. Stir to submerge. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is just al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Return shrimp to the pot with butter and Parmesan. Toss everything over low heat until the butter melts and the shrimp are heated through. Sprinkle in chopped parsley.
5. Serve immediately, adding extra lemon juice, zest, or Parmesan to taste. Store any leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes