Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy, tender shrimp with a rich, garlicky butter sauce tossed through perfectly cooked pasta. This dish feels indulgent yet light at the same time, thanks to the brightness of lemon and fresh parsley that balance the richness of the butter.

It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights because it comes together in under 30 minutes, but it’s also elegant enough to serve for date nights, family gatherings, or dinner parties. Each bite is flavorful, silky, and satisfying, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. The shrimp cook quickly, absorbing the buttery garlic sauce and releasing their natural sweetness into the pasta. The combination of buttery richness, garlicky depth, and zesty lemon makes this pasta feel both luxurious and approachable.

Another reason I love it is its versatility—you can enjoy it as-is, or make it creamy, spicy, or even more veggie-packed. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser; whether for kids, friends, or picky eaters, it always impresses.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it takes just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen and turns them into something that tastes gourmet. Unlike heavy cream-based pasta dishes, this one feels lighter but still indulgent. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delicious.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, easy, and restaurant-worthy without requiring hours of work, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the answer.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal (may vary depending on pasta type and butter amount)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• Juice of 1 lemon (plus wedges for serving)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Sauté shrimp in olive oil and butter until pink, then set aside.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan, then deglaze with chicken broth or wine.
4. Stir in lemon juice, return shrimp, and toss with pasta.
5. Finish with parsley, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water for creaminess.

Step-by-Step Method

1. Cook pasta – In salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Cook shrimp – In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Make sauce – In the same skillet, add remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Deglaze pan – Pour in chicken broth (or white wine). Let simmer for 2 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan.
5. Add lemon & pasta – Stir in lemon juice, then toss in pasta and shrimp. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish & serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve in bowls with lemon wedges for squeezing.
• Pair with garlic bread or a side salad.
• A chilled glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) makes the perfect pairing.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen works if thawed properly.
• Don’t overcook shrimp—they should be just pink and opaque.
• Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.

Variations

• Creamy Version: Add ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half.
• Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
• Cheesy Twist: Top with extra Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as shrimp and pasta don’t freeze well together.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta fork

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through, so they don’t overcook.

Q2: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely—just adjust cooking times based on the package directions.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with extra olive oil and skip Parmesan.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality dish. Juicy shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, fresh parsley, and pasta come together for a comforting yet elegant meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.