Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that dazzles with bright citrus notes and velvety richness, you are going to adore this Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta. The tender shrimp bathed in a luscious lemon-infused butter cream sauce, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, makes every bite a celebration of fresh, comforting flavors. This recipe balances zest and creaminess beautifully, delivering a home-cooked meal that feels both elegant and super satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but plays a key role in creating the dish’s exquisite balance of flavors and textures. From the luscious butter and fragrant garlic to the fresh lemon zest that brightens everything up, you’ll see how even the smallest addition makes a difference.

• 300 g pasta: Use your favorite type, but something like fettuccine or linguine will hold the sauce wonderfully.
• 300 g shrimp: Peeled and deveined, fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work perfectly for tender, juicy bites.
• 2 tbsp butter: This is the heart of the sauce, adding that dreamy, silky richness.
• 3 garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic brings a fragrant depth to the dish without overpowering the lemon.
• 1 cup cream: Heavy cream creates that signature creamy texture that coats every strand of pasta.
• Zest of 1 lemon: It adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that lifts the entire dish.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon: Provides a subtle tanginess that balances the cream and butter perfectly.
• Salt, pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors throughout.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped for a bright, herbaceous finish and a pop of green color.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little cooking water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later. Cooking the pasta properly is essential so it has the right bite and texture to pair with the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking. This step seals in the shrimp’s sweet flavor and keeps them tender enough to complement the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the cup of cream, then stir in the lemon zest and juice of half a lemon. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for a couple of minutes so it thickens slightly, coaxing out all those lovely flavors.

Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Pasta

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the luscious sauce. Then add the drained pasta and gently mix until every strand is enveloped in the creamy lemon butter goodness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as you go.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds the ideal fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness to complement the creamy sauce. You can also add a little extra lemon zest on top if you want a stronger citrus punch just before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables is amazing if you want some vibrancy and contrast. A crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side helps scoop up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta in individual shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful shrimp and sauce. For a fun twist, add some cherry tomatoes or peas to the pasta for extra color and bursts of sweetness. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top can also elevate the final presentation and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, so it’s best enjoyed fresh, but it still reheats nicely.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh as the cream sauce and shrimp can change texture when frozen. If you must freeze, store it without the pasta and reheat gently before combining with freshly cooked pasta for the best quality.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to avoid breaking down the sauce or overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to get the best texture and avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What type of pasta works best?

Long, flat pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or even spaghetti work beautifully since they hold the creamy lemon butter sauce very well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free spread and use coconut cream or another dairy-free cream alternative. The lemon flavor will still shine through nicely.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp only until they turn pink and are just opaque; removing them from the pan immediately prevents them from becoming rubbery as you make the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?

Definitely! It cooks up quickly in about 25 minutes total, making it an easy yet impressive dinner option after a busy day.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a dish like Creamy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta that feels indulgent but is so straightforward to prepare. It’s a perfect way to bring a bit of fresh, bright flavor to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you fall in love with this recipe as much as I have and share it with friends and family for many meals to come!