Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy, garlicky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, making each bite indulgent and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe is both quick and luxurious. It brings together the bold flavors of garlic and butter with the sweetness of shrimp and the heartiness of pasta. Whether you are short on time or want to impress guests, this recipe delivers elegance with ease. It’s also versatile and can be adjusted to suit a variety of preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
Garlic, minced
Unsalted butter
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and half of the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Add the remaining butter and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping any bits off the bottom.
Return the pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus pair beautifully with this dish.
Creamy version: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a creamier texture.
Spicy kick: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier flavor profile.
Gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Protein swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or grilled chicken if preferred.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra butter to restore the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them tough.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are ideal, but any long pasta will work well with the sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free alternatives and omit the Parmesan cheese.

How can I make this recipe low-carb?

Use spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of traditional pasta.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance for quicker cooking.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs nicely with the garlic butter and shrimp.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled to serve a larger group.

How do I know when the shrimp is done?

Shrimp is done when it turns pink and curls into a C-shape. Avoid cooking until it forms an O-shape, as that indicates overcooking.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet impressive dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. With its rich garlic butter sauce and tender shrimp, it delivers a satisfying combination of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a dinner to impress, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.