Gluten-Free Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

A Weeknight Dish with Coastal Elegance

There are days in my kitchen when I want the flavors of a seaside trattoria but without the fuss. This is exactly what inspired my Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta. It brings together the brightness of fresh lemon, the comfort of creamy parmesan, and the savory charm of juicy shrimp in a way that feels both luxurious and easy.

Back in Italy, seafood pasta was reserved for weekends or special occasions. But now, in our busy Boston home with four hungry little ones and very little time, I’ve created a recipe that channels that same joy into something that fits our everyday rhythm. This is one of those 30-minute shrimp pasta with parmesan and spinach meals that can save dinner any night of the week.

If you’re wondering how to make lemon garlic parmesan shrimp pasta, you’ll love how simple this truly is. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comes together in one pot.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces (225 g) spaghetti or linguine (Gluten-Free)
• Salt for pasta water

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable stock
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-In: 1 cup baby spinach (for a healthy shrimp pasta with spinach and garlic variation)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat dry and season with paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and stock. Simmer for 3 minutes.
5. Combine & Finish: Add pasta, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan to the skillet. Toss gently. Return shrimp to the pan. Add spinach if using. Stir until everything is well coated and warmed through.
6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a little extra lemon zest if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce

• Use fresh shrimp for maximum flavor or thoroughly thaw frozen shrimp.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp! Cook just until they turn pink and curl.
• Reserve pasta water to balance sauce consistency.
• Add extra greens like steamed broccoli or spinach for more nutrition.

Variations on This Shrimp Pasta Recipe

• Make It Creamy: Add ¼ cup of cream to create a creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta with spinach.
• Try Different Herbs: Swap parsley for basil or dill.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Deep skillet
• Colander
• Lemon zester
• Tongs or spatula

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat with a splash of stock or water.
• Avoid freezing the full dish, but you can freeze the sauce alone.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	430
Protein	28 g
Carbs	36 g
Fat	18 g
Sat Fat	7 g
Sodium	720 mg
Fiber	2 g

The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

FAQ: Best Shrimp Pasta Recipe with Parmesan and Spinach

Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely. Linguine works beautifully, but you can also try penne or fettuccine.

Can I make this dairy-free? Swap the butter with olive oil and omit or replace Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I prep this ahead? You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and boil pasta fresh when ready.

What wine pairs well? A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon and seafood.

End with Something Sweet

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to wrap up a savory dinner with something a little indulgent. Try our Homemade Brownie Baked Oatmeal — a sweet, cozy finish that feels like dessert but eats like breakfast. Or for a show-stopper, don’t miss the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.

From my kitchen to yours — Buon Appetito, and thank you for sharing a seat at my table.

FAQ for Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta