Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine with Lemon Butter

Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine with Lemon Butter is a restaurant-quality pasta dish that perfectly combines tender fettuccine noodles, juicy shrimp, and a luscious lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and herbs.

It’s elegant enough for a date night yet quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The zesty brightness of lemon cuts through the richness of butter, while the garlic brings warmth and depth — creating a truly luxurious, well-balanced meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a flavor-packed dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. The combination of buttery garlic sauce with shrimp is irresistible, and the hint of lemon gives it a fresh, vibrant lift.

Every bite feels indulgent but not heavy. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes — which makes it perfect for busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it’s simple yet luxurious, perfect for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. It’s quick to prepare, beautifully balanced, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish delivers restaurant-level taste with minimal effort. The creamy, garlicky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while the lemon zest keeps it light and fresh — truly an irresistible combination.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 510 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine pasta
• Salt, for boiling water

For the Shrimp and Sauce:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
• ¼ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook the fettuccine until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, sauté shrimp in butter and olive oil until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add broth, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Stir in cream (if using) and Parmesan, simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Toss in the pasta and shrimp, coat evenly, and finish with parsley.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
• Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
• Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
• Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant (do not brown).
• Pour in chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits.
• Stir in lemon juice and zest.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese (Optional)

• For a richer sauce, stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

• Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet.
• Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
• Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Season and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

How to Serve

Serve immediately while warm, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a wedge of lemon on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
• A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
• A chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Additional Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook shrimp — they turn rubbery quickly. Remove as soon as they turn pink.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
• If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water for a silky texture.
• For a lighter version, skip the cream and use only lemon butter and broth.

Variations

1. Spicy Shrimp Fettuccine: Add more crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
2. Creamy Alfredo Style: Increase cream and Parmesan for a thicker, creamier sauce.
3. Garlic Chicken Fettuccine: Substitute shrimp with sliced chicken breast.
4. Vegetarian Version: Skip shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to shrimp and dairy — the texture can change after thawing.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Lemon zester and juicer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this without cream?
Absolutely. The lemon butter and garlic alone make a rich, flavorful sauce.

Q3: What pasta can I use instead of fettuccine?
Linguine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle all work beautifully.

Q4: Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions for added color and nutrition.

Q5: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and Parmesan are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine with Lemon Butter is a show-stopping pasta that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen. The buttery garlic sauce, zesty lemon, and succulent shrimp come together in a dish that’s comforting, bright, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for romantic dinners, family meals, or when you just crave something special — this recipe is proof that simplicity can be absolutely divine.