“Why settle for another mundane weeknight dinner when you can indulge in something special? This Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta is my go-to dish when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s the kind of meal that transforms a regular Tuesday into an elegant dining experience—all ready in under 30 minutes! Not only does it elevate your dinner game, but it’s also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for both busy nights and romantic evenings at home. Curious how such a luxurious dish can come together so quickly? Let’s dive into the details!” Why is this pasta dish so special? Quick Preparation: In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels like a fine dining experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or surprise date nights! Bold, Unique Flavor: The Old Bay seasoning adds a delightful twist that elevates the classic garlic shrimp pasta to something extraordinary. Versatile Ingredients: Whether you want extra creaminess or plan to swap shrimp for scallops, this dish adapts to your preferences seamlessly. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to elegant gatherings—everyone will savor each bite! Minimal Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes. Plus, it’s great served alongside a Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a complete dinner spread! Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta Ingredients • Get ready to create a culinary delight! For the Pasta Dried Spaghetti – This serves as the perfect base; feel free to swap it with your favorite pasta shape for a personal twist. For the Shrimp Shrimp – Use deveined and peeled shrimp for a quick prep; fresh or frozen works beautifully. Old Bay Seasoning – This is the star ingredient; it adds a distinctive flavor that makes the shrimp shine! Lemon Juice – A splash of this brightens the entire dish, balancing the richness of the sauce. For the Sauce Butter – Unsalted preferred; it contributes to a rich, creamy sauce. Olive Oil – Helps to sauté without burning; a must-have for your skillet. Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor and aroma; it’s non-negotiable! Shallots – Offers sweetness and depth; finely minced for even cooking. Dry White Wine – Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce; choose a wine you enjoy drinking! Heavy Cream – Provides the luscious, creamy texture; adjust according to your preference for richness. Parmesan Cheese – Freshly shredded gives umami and creaminess; it melts beautifully into the sauce. For the Garnish Chopped Parsley – Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color; feel free to mix in other herbs like basil if desired. Gather these ingredients to embark on your culinary adventure, and let the flavors of this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta whisk you away! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta Step 1: Boil Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the dried spaghetti and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Before draining, reserve at least ½ cup of the pasta water to help create the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing the flavors of the Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta to shine through. Step 2: Prepare Shrimp In a mixing bowl, toss the deveined and peeled shrimp with Old Bay seasoning and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to infuse. This step is crucial to elevate the dish, ensuring the shrimp is packed with the bold taste that defines this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Step 3: Sauté Shrimp In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until melted and bubbling. Add ½ tablespoon of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Gently add the marinated shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Step 4: Make Sauce In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then add the finely minced shallots. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become translucent. Add the remaining minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. Pour in the dry white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits from the pan, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half. Step 5: Combine Sauce and Shrimp Once the wine has reduced, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until well combined. Let the sauce thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Then, add the sautéed shrimp back into the skillet, along with the chopped parsley, mixing to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. This fragrant melange forms the heart of your Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Step 6: Toss with Pasta Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing gently to combine everything. Incorporate the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired sauce consistency. Continue to toss until all the pasta is coated and the ingredients are heated through, about 1-2 minutes. This final step ensures that every strand of spaghetti is enveloped in the rich flavors of your Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Step 7: Serve and Garnish Transfer the Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm, allowing the vibrant flavors and creamy texture to enchant your loved ones. Enjoy this delightful meal that transforms any occasion into a special event! Make Ahead Options These Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta components can be prepped ahead, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can marinate the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning and lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the shrimp and finish the sauce; combine everything with the pasta for that same delightful taste and texture. Trust me, you’ll save precious time while still enjoying a quick, elegant meal! Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta Variations Explore the delicious opportunities to customize this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs! Extra Creamy: Add ¾ cup of heavy cream for a richer texture and flavor that will make each bite even more indulgent. Feel free to experiment with the cream ratio for a personalized touch! Flavor Booster: Increase the Old Bay seasoning by ½ tablespoon for a bolder flavor profile that truly embraces its seafood heritage. Want to spice it up a notch? This variation is sure to excite your taste buds! Capers & Olives: Toss in a handful of capers or olives for a zesty twist that brings depth and brininess to the dish. This combination enhances the flavor and transforms the dish into a Mediterranean delight! Swap Proteins: Instead of shrimp, use succulent scallops or tender chicken to give this pasta a new dimension. Both proteins complement the sauce beautifully while offering different textures. Vegan Style: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a plant-based twist. This variation keeps the dish creamy and satisfying without sacrificing flavor! Herbaceous Touch: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill, which can lend a refreshing element to the pasta and brighten its rich flavors. Adding fresh herbs can elevate your meal to new aromatic heights! Spicy Kick: Incorporate some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for an extra kick of heat that awakens the palate. Perfect for those who like their pasta with a fiery twist! With these variations, you can keep the Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta exciting every time you make it. Serve it alongside a comforting Garlic Butter Steak for a delightful dinner spread! What to Serve with Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the vibrant flavors of your shrimp pasta. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread perfectly balances the creamy sauce while inviting you to savor every bite. It’s an irresistible addition to your meal! Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, keeping your palate engaged throughout dinner. Plus, it’s a classic pairing! Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color, texture, and nutrients, enhancing the overall meal experience with earthy undertones. For something sweet, think about dessert as well. Consider serving with Lemon Sorbet – it’s light and refreshing, mirroring the brightness of lemon juice in the pasta. The zesty flavors will cleanse your palate, leaving a sweet finish to an elegant meal. Expert Tips for Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta • Season Gradually: Always taste your sauce while cooking and adjust the Old Bay seasoning gradually to prevent an overpowering salty flavor. • Avoid Burning Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; it should be fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can yield a bitter taste in your dish. • Precision in Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook your spaghetti al dente; it should have a slight bite for the best texture that holds up with the creamy sauce in your Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta. • Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to set aside at least ½ cup of pasta water; it’s a great tool for adjusting sauce consistency without sacrificing flavor. • Customize Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness; you can also use chicken broth for a lighter option. • Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightness; don’t hesitate to add extra if you’re a fan of fresh herbs! How to Store and Freeze Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat in the microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture and creaminess. Freezer: You can freeze this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove with a bit of additional olive oil or cream to revive its creamy texture. Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently to combine. This will help avoid overcooking the shrimp and keeps the sauce from separating. Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe? I recommend using deveined and peeled shrimp for this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta to save time and hassle. Fresh shrimp are fantastic, but if you’re short on time, frozen shrimp work beautifully too—just make sure they’re completely thawed before you start cooking! How should I store leftovers of Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta? Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave with a splash of water; this helps retain moisture and creaminess, making it taste almost as good as fresh! Can I freeze Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta? Absolutely! Cool the pasta completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of olive oil or cream to bring back its creamy texture. What can I do if my sauce is too thick? If you find your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This water is starchy and will help retain the sauce’s flavor without diluting it. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, definitely! To adapt this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta to be dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or even a mix of coconut milk and vegetable broth. You might also want to use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Is Old Bay seasoning safe for my pet? Old Bay seasoning contains various spices, and while many are safe, it’s best to avoid giving any highly seasoned food to your pet. Ingredients like garlic can be toxic in large amounts. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure! Delicious Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta for Quick Romantic Dinners Enjoy this Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a delightful dish perfect for quick romantic dinners, featuring succulent shrimp and a creamy sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 2 platesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Dried Spaghetti Feel free to swap with your favorite pasta shape.For the Shrimp1 pound Shrimp Deveined and peeled.2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning The star ingredient.2 tablespoons Lemon Juice For brightening the dish.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Butter Unsalted preferred.1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing.4 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.1 medium Shallot Finely minced.1/2 cup Dry White Wine Choose a wine you enjoy.1 cup Heavy Cream Adjust for richness.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly shredded.For the Garnish2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley Fresh parsley for brightness. Equipment Large PotLarge SkilletMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with Old Bay seasoning and lemon juice. Let marinate for 10 minutes.In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add shallots and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes.Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until combined. Add shrimp back to the skillet along with parsley, mixing to coat.Add drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing gently. Incorporate reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is achieved.Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with additional olive oil or cream to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
