Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe – Easy, Flavorful & Ready in 25 Minutes!

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality dish that you can make in under 30 minutes, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect recipe for you! This dish combines juicy, succulent shrimp with buttery, garlicky goodness and a hint of lemony freshness. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor! Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, this recipe will leave everyone craving for more.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

There are so many reasons to love this heavenly seafood pasta dish:

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor – A perfect blend of garlic, butter, shrimp, and Parmesan cheese.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh shrimp for a gourmet experience.
• Customizable – Can be made spicier, cheesier, or healthier according to your preference.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

To make this flavor-packed pasta dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine – The base of the dish, perfect for absorbing the delicious sauce.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star ingredient, adding protein and a delicious seafood flavor.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Enhances the richness of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps sauté the shrimp and garlic perfectly.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – The key to that bold, aromatic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a slight kick for spice lovers.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Provides mild heat and depth.
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth – Creates a flavorful sauce that pairs well with shrimp.
• Juice of 1 lemon – Adds a refreshing citrusy tang.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a creamy, umami richness.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – A bright, fresh garnish.
• Extra Parmesan and lemon wedges for serving – Because more cheese and lemon never hurt!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the best Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
• Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water (this will help adjust the sauce consistency later).
• Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

• Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
• Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

• Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice.
• Scrape up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
• Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
• Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, tossing everything together.
• If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp add the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work if properly thawed.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery; cook just until pink.
• Enhance the Sauce: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or extra butter.
• Make it Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Choose Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in cold water for 15-20 minutes.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine are ideal, but you can also use fettuccine, angel hair, or even penne.

3. Can I substitute the white wine?

Absolutely! Chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute that still adds depth to the sauce.

4. How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Simply replace butter with more olive oil and skip the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home. With its buttery garlic sauce, juicy shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal!

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