Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the aroma of garlic butter shrimp pasta wafting through your kitchen—it’s warm, inviting, and irresistible. Imagine succulent shrimp tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with perfectly al dente pasta. This dish is pure comfort food in under 30 minutes.

I discovered this recipe during a weeknight rush when I craved something fancy but fast. It’s now my go-to for everything from busy evenings to date-night dinners. Ready to dive into a plate of pure deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this dish. It’s a true gem for anyone who loves quick, easy, and flavorful meals.

First, it’s ridiculously fast to make. From prep to plate, this meal comes together in about 25 minutes, perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but craving something special.

Second, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp is classic for a reason—it’s rich, savory, and downright addictive. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality dish at home.

This recipe is also light yet satisfying. The shrimp provides a protein boost, while the pasta keeps it hearty without feeling too heavy—a winning balance.

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side salad for a casual dinner or pair it with a glass of wine for an elegant meal that feels like a treat.

Now that you’re hooked, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of garlic butter shrimp pasta lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

• Shrimp: Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best results. Fresh or frozen both work, but ensure they’re thawed completely if frozen. The shrimp’s sweetness pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce.
• Garlic: The star of the sauce! You’ll need 6–8 cloves of fresh garlic, minced. The key is to sauté it gently so it becomes fragrant without burning.
• Butter and Olive Oil: Combining unsalted butter with extra virgin olive oil ensures a rich sauce with a glossy finish. The butter adds creaminess, while the olive oil keeps the sauce light.
• Pasta: Classic spaghetti works beautifully, but you can use linguine or fettuccine. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the butter and garlic.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and herbal freshness. Flat-leaf parsley is ideal for its vibrant flavor.
• Optional Add-Ins: Want to elevate the dish? Toss in some red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra indulgence.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for cooking the pasta. With these simple ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create magic.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Creating this garlic butter shrimp pasta is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s how to bring it all together.

1. Cook the Pasta
   Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook it just until al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining—this will help bind the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a mixture of butter and olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
   In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Stir in the lemon juice and a splash of pasta water to create a light, flavorful sauce.
4. Combine Everything
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix well. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs
   Sprinkle the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and toss again. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a wedge of lemon and optional Parmesan on top.

In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s as stunning as it is satisfying.

Storage Options

Leftovers? Lucky you! This dish stores surprisingly well with a few simple tips.

• Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it just as tasty the next day.
• Freezing: While pasta dishes generally don’t freeze perfectly, you can freeze this recipe if needed. Pack it into a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through.

This recipe’s convenience doesn’t stop at dinnertime—leftovers make for an excellent lunch, too.

Variations and Substitutions

This garlic butter shrimp pasta is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus for added color and nutrition. Sauté them with the garlic for a quick boost.
• Try a Protein Twist: Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like mushrooms or tofu.
• Go Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili for a kick of heat that complements the garlicky richness.
• Experiment with Pasta Types: Don’t have spaghetti? Penne, linguine, or zucchini noodles are all excellent substitutes.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone for an extra indulgent sauce.

Whether you stick to the classic or mix things up, this recipe encourages you to get creative in the kitchen.

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is the ultimate weeknight hero: quick, delicious, and endlessly satisfying. Once you’ve tried it, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

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