One Pot Shrimp Pasta: Easiest Dinner in 20 Minutes!

January 2, 2026

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One pot shrimp pasta is comfort food redefined. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce all coming together in a single pot. This isn't just a recipe; it’s a weeknight savior, born from my own busy schedule and a craving for something delicious without the mountain of dishes. This one pot shrimp pasta dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait to share it with you.

Inspired by my grandmother's resourcefulness and my own love for simple, satisfying meals, this recipe makes dinner a breeze. No more juggling multiple pots and pans; just pure, unadulterated pasta perfection.

Why You Will Love This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

This one pot shrimp pasta recipe is more than just convenient; it's downright delicious. The best part about this recipe is that everything cooks together, allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavorful broth, creating a creamy sauce without any extra effort. Plus, cleanup is lightning fast!

I remember one particularly hectic evening when I needed dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. This one pot shrimp emerged as the champion of the night. This recipe is special because it uses minimal ingredients to maximize flavor and cuts down on prep time without sacrificing taste. It offers the ultimate comfort of a home cooked meal without the fuss.

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy and delicious recipes! You might also enjoy my recipe for One Pot Salmon Pasta, perfect for another quick and flavorful weeknight meal.

Ingredients Needed for This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

Here's what you'll need to cook this one pot shrimp pasta magic:

1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp, tail on or off (your preference!)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups chicken broth
8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

How to Make This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

Ready to get cooking? Here’s the easy step by step to delicious one pot shrimp pasta:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot, making sure it's submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Stir in the shrimp and continue to cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become rubbery.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or half and half) and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges, if desired.

How to Serve This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

This one pot shrimp pasta is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for sopping up the extra sauce.

For a vibrant touch, sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. Plating is simple; just ladle the pasta into bowls and garnish generously with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

You can use other fish such as salmon, like in this One Pot Salmon Salad recipe.

How to Store This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

Leftover one pot shrimp pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply microwave on medium heat until warmed through, or heat gently in a saucepan on the stovetop. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate it. Freezing is not recommended because the pasta may become mushy when thawed.

Tips to Make This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

Don’t overcook the shrimp! It only takes a few minutes to cook through.
Use good-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
For a richer flavor, use shrimp broth instead of chicken broth.
If you want to add vegetables, consider adding some spinach or chopped asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking.

Helpful Notes for This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

Make sure your chicken broth is low sodium, if possible, to control the salt level of the dish. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste. The pasta absorbs a lot of flavor, so don't be afraid to season generously.

For a more intense tomato flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes. You can also add a spoonful of tomato paste along with the garlic for an even deeper flavor. A good quality Dutch oven will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the pasta from sticking.

Variation of This one pot shrimp pasta Recipe

For a spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the red pepper flakes. For a creamy tomato basil variation, add a handful of fresh basil leaves along with the Parmesan cheese.

In the summer, use fresh, seasonal tomatoes instead of canned. For a winter twist, add some roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the sauce. It is so easy to substitute and be creative with one pot shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pasta is best for one pot shrimp pasta?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work best because they cook evenly in one pot. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, as it can make the dish sticky.

Can I use frozen shrimp for one pot shrimp pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the pot. This prevents the dish from becoming watery.

How do I prevent my pasta from sticking in the one pot recipe?

Make sure you have enough liquid, and stir frequently as it cooks. Start with the recommended amount of liquid and add more, about 1/2 cup at a time, if needed. Additionally, avoid overcooking the pasta.

Can I add vegetables to my one pot shrimp pasta?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini work great in this dish. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t become overcooked.

How long does one pot shrimp pasta last in the fridge?

Properly stored, one pot shrimp pasta can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before storing it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This one pot shrimp pasta is a recipe I hope you’ll come back to again and again. It’s a testament to the idea that delicious, satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time consuming. Try this recipe, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and most importantly, enjoy the process! Let me know in the comments how your one pot shrimp pasta turns out.