Bold, garlicky, and irresistibly comforting, Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect fusion of coastal seafood flavor and weeknight convenience. Juicy shrimp tossed in zesty Old Bay seasoning, sautéed garlic, and tender pasta create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet easy to make. This recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor at home—without complicated steps or heavy sauces.

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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, finely minced
Juice and zest of 1 fresh lemon
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup reserved pasta cooking water
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions For Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Season the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, and salt.
Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Build the Garlic Sauce
Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, followed by garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
Create the Sauce
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, remaining Old Bay seasoning, red pepper flakes, and reserved pasta water. Simmer briefly to form a light, glossy sauce.
Combine and Finish
Add pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated and heated through. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired.

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Pro Tips

Avoid overcooking shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly
Use freshly minced garlic for the best aroma and flavor
Reserve pasta water—it helps bind the sauce naturally
Taste before serving and adjust lemon or seasoning

Why This Recipe Works

Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
Bold seafood flavor without heavy cream
Simple pantry ingredients with big payoff
Perfect balance of garlic, spice, and citrus

Substitutions & Variations

Creamy version: Add ¼ cup heavy cream after garlic
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta
Low-carb: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles
Extra veggies: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini
Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Prep shrimp and garlic up to 24 hours in advance
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp texture may change

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Serving Ideas For Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Pair with garlic bread or crusty rolls
Serve alongside a crisp green salad
Add roasted vegetables for a balanced plate
Enjoy with lemon-infused sparkling water or iced tea

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~480
Protein: ~32g
Carbohydrates: ~48g
Fat: ~18g
Fiber: ~3g

(Values are estimates and may vary.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely under cold water and pat dry before cooking.

Is Old Bay seasoning spicy?

It has mild heat with savory spice—flavorful but not overpowering.

What pasta works best?

Linguine, spaghetti, fettuccine, or bucatini all hold the sauce well.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Skip butter and Parmesan and add extra olive oil or pasta water.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them only at the end to avoid overcooking.

Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a bold, satisfying dish that brings coastal-inspired flavor straight to your table. With juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and bright lemon notes, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver unforgettable results—perfect for busy nights or relaxed gatherings.