Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Nothing beats the moment when someone walks into my kitchen, catches a whiff of sizzling garlic and butter, and says, “What smells so good?” It’s the kind of question that makes any home cook’s heart skip a beat. For me, this garlic butter shrimp pasta is the answer to that question. Growing up, my family didn’t do fancy seafood dinners, but I’ve since fallen in love with shrimp’s versatility. I stumbled across a version of this recipe years ago in a friend’s kitchen, and after tweaking it to perfection, it’s become my go-to for cozy weeknight meals or impressing guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic butter shrimp pasta is a game-changer. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and bursts with rich, savory flavors. The tender shrimp, coated in a garlicky, buttery sauce, pairs perfectly with al dente pasta, making every bite a delight. Plus, it’s versatile—swap ingredients or add a spicy kick to suit your taste!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Course: Main Dish
This dish combines juicy shrimp with a luscious garlic butter sauce, tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up this delicious shrimp pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Substitutions
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Shrimp: Swap with scallops or cubed chicken if seafood isn’t your thing.
- Wine: Chicken broth or vegetable broth works as a non-alcoholic substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. This helps them sear nicely and soak up the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it can turn bitter fast!
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Pour in the white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice, creating a silky sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Toss
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan, if using.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give it a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately while it’s hot and fragrant.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook fast—2-3 minutes per side is plenty. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic lacks the punch of freshly minced cloves.
- Reserve Pasta Water: It’s a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often has additives that affect flavor and texture.
Variations to Try
This recipe is super flexible. Here are some fun twists:
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream with the butter for a richer sauce.
- Veggie-Packed: Toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.
- Herb Swap: Try fresh basil or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve this garlic butter shrimp pasta hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. For a complete meal, add a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Storage Instructions
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the shrimp and sauce (without pasta) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on portion size and ingredient choices.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw them in the fridge overnight or under cold running water for 10-15 minutes. Pat dry before cooking.
What pasta works best?
Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine is ideal because it holds the sauce well. Short pasta like penne works too!
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture. Reheat the sauce gently before tossing.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Skip the red pepper flakes and go light on the garlic for a milder flavor kids will love.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Swap butter for a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or extra olive oil. Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
Conclusion
This garlic butter shrimp pasta is my kind of comfort food—quick, flavorful, and sure to impress anyone who catches its irresistible aroma. It’s the perfect dish to bring warmth to a chilly evening or elevate a weeknight dinner. I love how easily it comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy with family or friends. So, grab your skillet, try this recipe, and let me know how it turns out! Save it for your next dinner rotation or share it with someone who loves a good pasta night. What’s your favorite way to make shrimp pasta? Drop a comment below!
