Flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta You’ll Make Again and Again

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a dish that combines elegance with simplicity, making it perfect for any occasion.

Tender, juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.

This recipe captures the essence of comfort food with its creamy, buttery sauce infused with fresh garlic and a hint of lemon for brightness.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends for an intimate gathering, this dish will never fail to impress.

Serve it with a crisp side salad or warm, crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
2. Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of buttery garlic sauce, fresh lemon juice, and tender shrimp creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, this dish is versatile enough to suit the mood.
4. Customizable: Add vegetables, switch up the pasta, or adjust the spices to make it your own.
5. A Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters love the savory, comforting taste of garlic butter shrimp pasta.

Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp

• Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined, for convenience. Large shrimp are preferred for their juicy texture and visual appeal.

Pasta

• Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works best, but you can use your favorite type of pasta. Cook it al dente to hold up well in the sauce.

Garlic

• Fresh garlic is key to the bold, aromatic flavor in this dish. Mince it finely to release its natural oils.

Butter and Olive Oil

• The combination of butter and olive oil creates a luscious base for the sauce while preventing the butter from burning.

Lemon Juice

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter and garlic.

Parsley

• Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and a touch of herbaceous freshness to the dish.

Optional Add-Ins

• Red Pepper Flakes: For a spicy kick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a creamy, nutty flavor.
• White Wine: Enhances the depth of the sauce and pairs beautifully with shrimp.

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How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add your pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine) and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter.
2. Pour in a splash of white wine (optional) or ¼ cup of reserved pasta water to deglaze the pan.
3. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce.
2. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; 2-3 minutes per side is enough. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon juice will elevate the flavors of the dish.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid helps to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
4. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the sauce and gives the dish a better texture.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are ideal options, but you can use any pasta you like.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or additional olive oil for a dairy-free version.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

5. What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with chicken broth or additional pasta water.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate quick and flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress.

The rich garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in harmony for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Customize it with your favorite ingredients, pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread, and enjoy the simplicity of a meal that feels like it came straight from a restaurant.

Try it tonight, and prepare to add it to your list of go-to recipes!