Old Bay Garlic Shrimp Delight

This Old Bay Garlic Shrimp pasta is the perfect quick and flavorful dinner when you want something simple but impressive. The combination of garlic butter sauce with the spicy kick from Old Bay seasoning brings a bit of coastal comfort straight to your kitchen. I put this together on a busy weeknight after a long day and it felt like a special treat without any fuss.

I love how easily you can adjust the spice by varying the Old Bay. This recipe quickly became my go-to when I want something both cozy and with a little zip.

Ingredients

• Pasta: half a pound cooked al dente is the perfect base for absorbing the sauce
• Butter: four tablespoons for rich flavor and a creamy texture
• Garlic: ten cloves minced adds bright savory notes, fresh garlic is key here
• Old Bay: two teaspoons gives the dish its signature warm, slightly spicy flavor, pick a fresh and well-sealed container
• Pasta water: half a cup reserved to loosen the sauce and help it stick to everything
• Key West Pink Shrimp: twelve to sixteen ounces lightly salted they cook fast and stay tender, fresh or thawed from frozen both work well
• Parsley: half a cup chopped for freshness and color
• Chives: two tablespoons chopped add a gentle onion flavor without overpowering
• Parmesan cheese: half a cup finely grated for a salty finish and a little extra umami

Instructions

Cook The Pasta:

Cook your pasta according to package instructions in generously salted water until just al dente. Be sure to reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the noodles. This water will help create the sauce that clings to the shrimp and pasta.

Build The Garlic Butter Sauce:

In a pan set to medium-low heat gently melt the butter. Once fully melted add the minced garlic and cook slowly for two to three minutes until it is soft and fragrant making sure it does not turn brown or bitter. This gentle cooking builds deep, mellow garlic flavor.

Add Old Bay Seasoning:

Stir in the Old Bay and continue cooking with the garlic butter for another two to three minutes. Mixing often prevents the spices from sticking or burning. This step infuses the sauce with that unmistakable tangy spice.

Simmer With Reserved Pasta Water:

Pour in the reserved pasta water and let the sauce simmer gently for three to four minutes. This helps the seasoning meld into a slightly thickened sauce ready to coat the shrimp.

Cook The Shrimp:

Add the lightly salted Key West Pink Shrimp to the pan. Cook for about three to four minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and firm to the touch. Small shrimp cook quickly so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

Combine Pasta And Herbs:

Return the drained pasta to the pan with the shrimp and sauce. Add the chopped parsley and chives then toss everything together thoroughly. The herbs add brightness and freshness balancing the rich butter.

Finish With Parmesan:

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and toss again to incorporate. Serve this dish immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Old Bay was a staple in my family for seafood boils growing up. Its inclusion here brings a nostalgic warmth to a simple pasta dish that really sticks in your memory.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The shrimp are best eaten soon after cooking, but the sauce and pasta will keep their flavor well. When reheating add a splash of water or butter to loosen the sauce and avoid drying out.

Ingredient Swaps

If you cannot find Key West Pink Shrimp any small peeled shrimp work well as a substitute. You can swap chives for green onions or fresh basil for a different herb twist. For a dairy-free version replace butter with olive oil and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Serving Ideas

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the garlicky sauce. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors nicely.

This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight meals and can be easily customized to suit any taste.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the garlic from burning when cooking?

Cook garlic on medium-low heat and watch closely until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid letting it brown to keep its mellow flavor.

→ Can I use a different type of shrimp?

Yes, use any peeled and deveined shrimp. Adjust cooking time depending on size to avoid overcooking.

→ Why is reserved pasta water added to the sauce?

Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps thicken the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta for better flavor integration.

→ How do fresh herbs affect the dish?

Parsley and chives bring fresh, bright herbal notes that balance the rich buttery sauce and seafood flavors.

→ Is Parmesan cheese essential for the dish?

Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth that complements the shrimp and herbs, enhancing overall taste and texture.