Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Picture juicy, tender shrimp swimming in a luscious garlic-butter sauce, perfectly coating strands of spaghetti. This meal brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen in under 30 minutes, making it an absolute winner for busy weeknights or anytime you want something special without fuss. Once you dive into this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, it’ll soon become your go-to comfort food that impresses without the stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity; each ingredient brings something essential to the table—whether it’s richness, brightness, or that fresh herbaceous finish. Here’s what you’ll gather to create the magic:

• 200g spaghetti: Choose good-quality spaghetti for the perfect al dente bite that holds the sauce beautifully.
• 2 Tbsp butter: The star of the sauce, butter adds a silky richness that makes this dish irresistible.
• 2 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with vibrant flavor and that unmistakable aroma.
• 200g shrimp, peeled: Fresh or thawed shrimp that cook quickly and stay tender and juicy.
• Juice of ½ lemon: A squeeze of lemon brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
• Salt & pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all flavors into harmonious balance.
• 2 Tbsp parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh finish to the dish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by cooking your spaghetti in well-salted boiling water until it’s perfectly al dente. The pasta should have a slight bite to it because it will soak up the fantastic garlic butter sauce. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen up the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant. Add finely minced garlic and gently sauté until the garlic becomes golden and aromatic, but make sure not to let it burn. This step is where the buttery, garlicky flavor base for the shrimp develops.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled shrimp directly to the skillet with the garlic butter. Cook them for just a few minutes on each side until they blush a beautiful pink color and curl up slightly. This quick cooking ensures they remain tender and juicy instead of rubbery.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Parsley

Once the shrimp are cooked through, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. This bright tang lifts the entire sauce, balancing the richness of the butter. Toss in the chopped parsley for a fresh herbal note and a lovely pop of green color.

Step 5: Toss Pasta in the Sauce

Add your cooked spaghetti into the skillet and toss everything together so the noodles get luxuriously coated in that garlic butter sauce. If it feels a bit thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will help it cling perfectly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

To elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for freshness and a burst of color. Adding a few lemon wedges on the side not only enhances the presentation but lets guests customize the brightness as they please. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese can also be a delightful bonus.

Side Dishes

This rich and flavorful pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple sides. A fresh green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette complements the buttery richness perfectly, while crusty garlic bread provides the ideal tool for soaking up any leftover delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or want to impress, serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in individual shallow bowls, letting the colors of pink shrimp, green parsley, and golden sauce shine. Drizzle a little extra melted butter or olive oil on top for a professional touch, and consider adding a few cherry tomatoes or roasted vegetables alongside for an eye-catching plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store your leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that seafood is best enjoyed fresh, so try to eat it quickly for optimum flavor and texture.

Freezing

While freezing pasta with shrimp is possible, it can sometimes affect texture. If you want to freeze, separate the shrimp from the pasta sauce and store each in freezer-safe containers. Thaw and reheat separately for best results within one month.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce. Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender and prevent it from becoming rubbery. Microwaving in short bursts also works well if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps the shrimp sear nicely and the sauce not become watery.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti is the classic choice as its thin strands hold the garlic butter sauce beautifully, but if you prefer, linguine or fettuccine are excellent alternatives.

Is this dish spicy?

Nope! Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is all about buttery richness and bright lemon notes. If you’d like some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a high-quality olive oil or a dairy-free margarine alternative to keep that luscious texture without dairy.

How long does Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta take to make?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 25 minutes, perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner any night of the week.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about a plate of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta that feels luxurious yet so easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish delivers big on flavor without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen. So grab those ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a warm, delicious hug in pasta form!