One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

One-pot lemon garlic shrimp pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner – fast, flavorful, and satisfying, all with minimal cleanup. This dish delivers restaurant-worthy flavor using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s light but comforting, with juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and a garlicky sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.

The magic starts with the shrimp, which cook quickly and bring a natural sweetness and tenderness to the dish. A good amount of garlic is essential here, it’s sautéed in olive oil until fragrant, then joined by a splash of broth or pasta water to form the base of the sauce. Lemon juice and zest add brightness and freshness, while a touch of butter or olive oil gives the dish its silky texture.

Because it all comes together in one pot, the pasta cooks right alongside the shrimp, soaking up the flavors as it simmers. That means fewer dishes and more depth in every bite. You can use spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine, anything long and twirlable works beautifully.

What makes this dish stand out is its balance. The lemon brings a tangy, citrus lift, the garlic gives it punch, and the shrimp provide richness and protein without weighing things down. It’s a meal that feels light and clean, but still deeply satisfying.

If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top at the end brings a pop of color and freshness. A bit of grated Parmesan doesn’t hurt either, though it’s entirely optional.

This one-pot pasta is ideal for busy nights, casual dinners with friends, or when you just want something fresh and fast that doesn’t sacrifice taste. It’s proof that you don’t need a complicated recipe to make something that feels special.

One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

3.83 from 46 votes

A delicious and easy-to-make one-pot pasta dish with tangy lemon, flavorful garlic, and succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Servings 1 people

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 200 grams shrimp fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
• 200 grams pasta spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 lemon juice and zest fresh
• 1/4 cup parsley chopped fresh
• 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Add shrimp to the pot and cook until pink and opaque, about 3 minutes. Remove shrimp from the pot and set aside.
• In the same pot, add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a boil.
• Add pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
• Return the cooked shrimp to the pot. Stir in fresh parsley and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 85gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 4mg

Calories: 750kcal

Meal Type: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Keyword: pasta, Quick Recipes, shrimp

Cooking Method: Baked

Time: <30 Min

Level: Easy

Tried this recipe?Mention @coolinarco or tag #coolinarco!

Frogmore Stew

Frogmore Stew, also known as Lowcountry Boil, is a savory South Carolina dish featuring a delightful mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes boiled in perfectly seasoned broth.

Check out this recipe

Seafood Paella

Seafood Paella is a classic Spanish dish that combines a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, and calamari, with flavorful rice cooked in a rich broth. This dish is perfect for gatherings and offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Check out this recipe

Sesame Soba Noodles with Grilled Shrimp

Easy and healthy Japanese meal with noodles.

Check out this recipe

Shrimp Biryani

Shrimp Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with juicy shrimp, aromatic basmati rice, and a blend of spices. It’s a delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Check out this recipe

Shrimp Pasta Salad

A refreshing and delicious Shrimp Pasta Salad perfect for a light lunch or summer dinner.

Check out this recipe

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A refreshing and delightful pasta dish combining the zesty flavor of lemon and the savory taste of garlic with succulent shrimp.

Check out this recipe

Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make meal packed with flavor. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

Check out this recipe

Herb-marinated Grilled Shrimp

Delicious and flavorful herb-marinated grilled shrimp recipe.

Check out this recipe

Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp Pad Thai is a classic Thai street food made with rice noodles, shrimp, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It’s a delicious and quick meal perfect for any night of the week.

Check out this recipe

Sweet Chili Shrimp With Asparagus

A delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus, all coated in a sweet and spicy chili sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Check out this recipe