Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of garlic butter, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that feels indulgent but is so easy to make. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a crowd-pleaser with its rich flavors and simple preparation, making it perfect for weeknights or dinner parties alike.

I first discovered this recipe when trying to recreate a dish I fell in love with at a seaside restaurant. Now, it’s become one of my go-to meals, ready in under 30 minutes yet tasting like a five-star experience. Let’s dive in and bring some elegance to your dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite dinner recipe. Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is more than just delicious; it’s a lifesaver for busy cooks craving something special.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in about 25 minutes. Perfect for those nights when time is short, but you still want a hearty, home-cooked meal.

The flavors are absolutely irresistible. The combination of buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and al dente pasta creates a harmonious blend of rich and savory notes. A touch of lemon adds brightness, elevating the dish to restaurant-quality status.

It’s versatile enough to please any crowd. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters, seafood enthusiasts, or anyone in between, this recipe adapts easily to different preferences and ingredients.

Finally, this dish is economical. While it tastes luxurious, it uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and freezer.

Let’s move on to the ingredients that make this recipe shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to complement and enhance the others. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why.

Shrimp is the star of the dish. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for their meaty texture. Frozen, deveined shrimp are a convenient choice—just be sure to thaw them beforehand. If you prefer fresh shrimp, go for it!

Pasta forms the base of the dish. Spaghetti or linguine works wonderfully here, as the long strands cling to the luscious sauce. Feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version.

Butter is key to creating that rich, silky sauce. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish.

Garlic provides the backbone of flavor. Freshly minced garlic is best for its bold, aromatic quality. You’ll need about 4-6 cloves, but feel free to adjust to your taste.

Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed lemon is ideal, as it brings a vibrant, zesty kick.

Parmesan cheese ties everything together with a nutty, salty finish. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

A large skillet is the only special equipment you’ll need, making cleanup a breeze.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is as easy as it is satisfying. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal in no time.

Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is key for creating a silky sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, if desired.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of butter. Once melted and bubbling, toss in the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.

Deglaze the pan with lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add the remaining butter and stir until it melts, creating a glossy sauce.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta, along with a handful of grated Parmesan, and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley. The result? A dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Storage Options

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), storing this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is simple.

Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.

To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to a skillet over medium heat and toss the pasta until warmed through. This helps revive the sauce without drying it out. Avoid using a microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp.

While freezing is possible, the texture of the shrimp and sauce may change slightly. If you do freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own with these variations.

For a healthier twist, swap the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash also make excellent low-carb alternatives.

Want a creamier sauce? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for an indulgent touch.

If shrimp isn’t your favorite, substitute it with cooked chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Add extra vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrients and color. Simply sauté them along with the garlic for a cohesive flavor.

For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce before serving.

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect version!

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