Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine

Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine is a quick, flavorful, and elegant pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon zest and juice, then tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine for a creamy, tangy, and satisfying meal.

This dish combines fresh seafood, rich butter, zesty citrus, and aromatic garlic to create a restaurant-quality pasta at home.

I love this recipe because it is fast, easy, and packed with flavor. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, the sauce is silky and infused with lemon and garlic, and the pasta absorbs every bit of the buttery goodness.

Why I Love This Recipe

The shrimp are perfectly cooked and flavorful, the lemon adds a refreshing brightness, and the garlic butter sauce coats the fettuccine beautifully.

It is quick to prepare yet feels indulgent. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite satisfying and memorable.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

It is simple to make but tastes like a gourmet meal. The fresh ingredients and bright lemon flavor elevate ordinary pasta into an extraordinary dish. Perfect for seafood lovers, it is ideal for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time 10 minutes
Cooking Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
   Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
3. Sauté Shrimp
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
   In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Deglaze the Pan
   Add white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine Pasta and Shrimp
   Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired sauce consistency. Add lemon zest and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
7. Serve
   Plate the pasta and shrimp. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

Serve hot as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad. Pair with a chilled white wine for an elegant meal. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Do not overcook shrimp as they can become rubbery.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, buttery sauce at its best.

Variations

Add asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for a vegetable boost.
Substitute fettuccine with linguine, spaghetti, or penne.
Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Use lime instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a spicier version.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
Freezing Not recommended as pasta and shrimp texture may be affected.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot for pasta
Large skillet
Tongs or spatula
Citrus zester
Measuring spoons and cups

FAQ

Q1 Can I use frozen shrimp
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2 Can I make this gluten-free
Yes, substitute fettuccine with gluten-free pasta.

Q3 Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time
Yes, but combine with pasta and shrimp just before serving for best texture.

Q4 Can I use pre-minced garlic
Yes, but fresh garlic provides more flavor.

Q5 Can I add cream to the sauce
Yes, add 1/4 cup heavy cream after deglazing for a creamy variation.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine is a quick, flavorful, and elegant pasta dish that combines tender shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and bright lemon flavors. It is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Quick to prepare, versatile, and satisfying, it is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves seafood and pasta.