Name: Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1½ tbsp Old Bay seasoning, divided; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; Grated Parmesan (optional); ½ cup reserved pasta water

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s tossed with succulent shrimp and bold flavors. This Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta takes the classic combination and elevates it with a distinctive seafood twist that is both quick and satisfying. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner party, this dish captures a taste of the seaside right in your kitchen. With aromatic garlic, zesty lemon, and the signature kick of Old Bay seasoning, it’s a dish that promises to impress.

Why you’ll love this dish

This Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta is more than just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile and easy to whip up, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s hearty, yet feels light and fresh because of the shrimp and lemon, making it a great choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.

"I made this dish for a dinner party last week, and everyone was asking for the recipe! The shrimp were perfectly seasoned, and the garlic paired beautifully with the pasta."

The cooking process explained

Making this pasta is straightforward, and the steps are simple enough for even novice cooks to follow. You’ll be cooking the pasta while simultaneously preparing a flavorful shrimp sauté, leading to a beautiful amalgamation of flavors. This recipe doesn’t require any fancy techniques—just good ingredients and a little love. Ready to dive into the details?

What you’ll need

12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1½ tbsp Old Bay seasoning, divided
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan (optional)
½ cup reserved pasta water

You can easily swap the pasta type if you prefer another kind, and feel free to adjust the Old Bay seasoning to suit your taste.

Directions to follow

Cook the pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and setting aside.
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, salt, and olive oil until well coated.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, letting the garlic become fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice, zest, red pepper flakes (if using), and the remaining ½ tablespoon of Old Bay. Add the reserved pasta water to create a delicious sauce.
Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet, mixing everything until well combined and warmed through.
Top with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and extra lemon if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

Presentation can elevate any meal, and this dish is no exception. Serve your Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta in shallow bowls, garnished with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a crisp, green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience. For added crunch, serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this crowd-pleaser), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or pasta water to keep the dish from drying out. Simply warm it up in a skillet on low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate the dish, consider marinating your shrimp in lemon juice and Old Bay for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Start cooking your pasta just before you begin the shrimp to sync cooking times perfectly.
If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two to ramp up the flavor!

Creative twists

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily customize it. Swap out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options, or use different seafood like scallops or crab. You can also add seasonal vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, to boost the dish’s nutritional profile.

Common questions

What is Old Bay seasoning?
Old Bay is a unique blend of spices traditionally used in seafood dishes, creating a distinctive flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to properly thaw and dry the shrimp before seasoning and cooking to ensure a good sear.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with some added oil or water to prevent drying out.

This hearty and flavorful dish is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a seafood favorite you won’t want to miss. Cook it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more!