Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Parsley

Introduction

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Parsley is an elegant yet simple dish that perfectly balances richness and freshness. Tender shrimp are sautéed in a golden garlic butter sauce, then tossed with al dente pasta, zesty lemon juice, and fresh parsley. The result is a restaurant-style meal you can make in under 30 minutes right in your own kitchen!

This dish shines because of its harmony — the buttery, garlicky sauce coats every strand of pasta, while the lemon brightens the flavors and the parsley adds a touch of freshness. It’s indulgent but not heavy, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the kind of meal that tastes luxurious but takes minimal effort. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter fills the kitchen, and the shrimp cook up in just minutes — juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The lemon zest and parsley cut through the richness beautifully, creating a balanced, comforting, and refreshing dish.

It’s also a versatile base recipe — you can dress it up for a date night or keep it simple for a quick family meal. It always feels special, no matter how many times you make it.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a must-try because:

• It’s quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
• It uses simple, fresh ingredients that create bold, restaurant-level flavor.
• The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and shrimp is pure perfection.
• It’s light yet satisfying, ideal for lunch or dinner.
• It pairs wonderfully with wine, salad, or crusty bread.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 480–520 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

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

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional but enhances flavor)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Sauté shrimp in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt butter, add garlic, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Deglaze with wine or broth. Toss in the cooked pasta and shrimp.
5. Add parsley and Parmesan, then serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
2. Add butter and let it melt.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant (don’t brown the garlic).
4. Add lemon juice, zest, and white wine (or chicken broth).
5. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors combine.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss well, adding a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
3. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
4. Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra lemon zest if desired.
2. Garnish with more parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for shine.

How to Serve

• Serve in warm pasta bowls or plates.
• Garnish with extra parsley, Parmesan, and lemon wedges on the side.
• Pair it with:
  • A crisp white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • Garlic bread or toasted baguette
  • A light green salad with balsamic dressing

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook shrimp — they become rubbery quickly!
• Always reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
• Add a touch of cream or Parmesan for a richer sauce.
• Zest the lemon before juicing — it adds a punch of citrus brightness.

Variations

• Creamy Shrimp Pasta: Add ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer, Alfredo-style version.
• Spicy Arrabbiata Twist: Stir in a spoonful of chili paste or more red pepper flakes.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Zoodles: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Herb Lovers’ Version: Add fresh basil, thyme, or dill for an aromatic boost.
• Tomato Twist: Toss in cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal — shrimp and pasta lose texture when frozen.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Lemon zester or microplane
• Wooden spoon

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Q2: Can I skip the wine?
Absolutely. Replace it with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Q3: What pasta type works best?
Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta works beautifully as they hold the light sauce well.

Q4: How can I make it dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Q5: Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or peas all pair well with this dish.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Parsley is the definition of effortless elegance — quick to make yet bursting with gourmet flavor. The buttery garlic sauce and bright lemon balance beautifully with tender shrimp and pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

It’s the perfect recipe when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. One bite, and you’ll understand why this pasta has become a timeless favorite for seafood lovers everywhere.