Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Few dishes can match the elegance and simplicity of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Juicy shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce come together in this quick yet indulgent meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for a weeknight.

this Recipe

I first tried this dish when hosting an impromptu dinner party, and it was an instant hit. It’s now my go-to recipe when I want something impressive but fuss-free. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a must-try for pasta and seafood lovers. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
2. Bursting with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce is rich, aromatic, and pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp and al dente pasta.
3. Elegant Yet Affordable: Shrimp gives the dish a luxurious feel, while the rest of the ingredients are simple pantry staples.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or swap in your preferred pasta to make it your own.

If you’re ready to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is effortless, let’s explore the ingredients that make this recipe shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta irresistible:

• Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen works, but make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.
• Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are excellent choices. Their long strands hold the sauce beautifully.
• Butter: Unsalted butter forms the base of the sauce, creating a rich and velvety texture.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is the star of the show, infusing the butter with its bold, savory aroma.
• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
• Red Pepper Flakes: These add a gentle kick of heat. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of herbaceous flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle of grated Parmesan takes the dish to the next level.

With these simple ingredients and a skillet, you’re ready to whip up something amazing.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This dish comes together quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce to coat. Add the reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir in the shrimp and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
5. Finish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the heavenly aroma and flavor!

Storage Options

Although best enjoyed fresh, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be stored for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While pasta can lose its texture when frozen, the shrimp and sauce freeze well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize it:

• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the garlic butter shrimp over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for everyone.

A Dish Worth Savoring

Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two, a meal to impress guests, or just a weeknight treat, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a recipe that never disappoints. With its bold flavors, quick preparation, and elegant presentation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Try it out and let me know how it turns out – happy cooking!

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