Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines rich, buttery flavors with a touch of zest and the delicate sweetness of shrimp, you’re in for a treat with this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together perfectly cooked pasta drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce, studded with tender shrimp and finished with fresh parsley and bright lemon juice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests, making it a true ultimate crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the silky pasta to the fragrant garlic and fresh parsley, these simple components come together to create a dish that tastes much more gourmet than the effort required.

• 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine: Choose your favorite long pasta variety for perfect sauce absorption and a satisfying bite.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen, shrimp add a tender, sweet protein that cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with butter.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is the heart of your sauce—rich, creamy, and essential for that silky texture.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the butter with its unmistakable warm, aromatic flavor that makes this dish irresistible.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick to brighten up the richness, adjustable to your heat preference.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out all the natural flavors perfectly.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a refreshing herbal note and lovely flecks of green.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that balances the buttery sauce and elevates the shrimp.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For serving, it adds a nutty richness and creates a gorgeous finishing touch.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the spaghetti or fettuccine until just al dente ensures the pasta has enough bite to perfectly complement the creamy garlic butter shrimp sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it ready for the sauce to work its magic.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Adding the shrimp along with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper lets you cook them just right until they’re pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key—the shrimp should be juicy and tender, not rubbery, so keep a close eye. Remove the shrimp and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if you’d like some subtle heat. Cooking it for just 1 to 2 minutes allows the garlic to release its wonderful aroma and flavor, infusing the butter without burning, which would cause bitterness.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and add the drained pasta. Pour in that tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle half of the finely chopped parsley. Toss everything together over medium heat until the pasta is perfectly coated with the glossy, garlicky butter sauce. This moment is when all the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 5: Check Seasoning

Always give your creation a taste. This step lets you adjust with a little more salt or black pepper to balance and enhance every bite exactly to your liking. The freshness of the lemon and herbs can sometimes need a little extra seasoning boost here.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once off the heat, sprinkle on the remaining parsley and a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly from the warmth, adding a nutty, salty finish that pulls the entire dish together into something truly satisfying.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a must for the bright herbal pop it gives, but you can also add a few lemon wedges on the side for your guests who love a little extra tang. A light dusting of Parmesan or even a drizzle of good quality olive oil can elevate the presentation and add subtle flavor notes.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple green salads featuring crisp vegetables or a crunchy garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of that heavenly butter sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli also complement the rich flavors perfectly without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner party, serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in large, shallow bowls to showcase the colors and inviting sauce. Garnish thoughtfully with parsley sprigs, lemon slices, or even edible flowers to make the plate as visually enticing as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp tender, avoid overcooking during reheating. The pasta will soak up the sauce, so adding a splash of water or broth when reheating helps restore the silky texture.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen in portions if needed. Freeze the pasta and shrimp separately for best results, wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Use within 1 month for the freshest taste and texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Gently reheat your leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or olive oil, stirring frequently to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can dry out the shrimp and pasta. Reheating slowly ensures the sauce remains luscious and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture that can dilute the sauce and ensures the shrimp cook evenly.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Spaghetti and fettuccine are ideal because their long strands hold the buttery sauce well, but you can experiment with linguine or even angel hair for a lighter bite.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes during the garlic cooking stage or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also serve with a spicy chili oil on the side.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil. Keep in mind the sauce’s flavor and texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for guests?

You can cook the shrimp and pasta ahead but combine and toss with the sauce just before serving to ensure everything is hot and fresh. Preparing the garlic butter sauce fresh will keep the flavors bright.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites to prepare when I want something comforting yet special. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the richness of the sauce and the freshness of lemon and parsley creates a harmony that’s nothing short of spectacular. Give it a try tonight—I promise it will become a beloved recipe in your rotation, just as it is in mine!

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