Irresistible Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe to Savor

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a dish that dances on your taste buds, combining the rich flavor of garlic, the sweetness of shrimp, and the comforting embrace of pasta. Picture this: a warm bowl of perfectly cooked spaghetti coated in silky garlic butter sauce, with juicy shrimp nestled among vibrant herbs. The aroma wafts through the air, promising a meal that feels like a warm hug right when you need it.

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about memories. I remember making garlic butter shrimp pasta for the first time during a rainy day, hoping to lift my spirits. The sizzle of shrimp hitting the pan and the heavenly smell of garlic would make anyone forget about gloomy clouds outside. Trust me, this meal is perfect for cozy dinners, date nights, or just because you deserve something delicious after a long day.

There was this one time when I made garlic butter shrimp pasta for my family reunion. Everyone’s eyes lit up as I set the table, and not a single bite was left over!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for that classic twirl around your fork.

• Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp; they add a delightful bite and soak up the flavors well.

• Garlic: Use fresh cloves if possible for maximum flavor; it makes all the difference!

• Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness while adding richness to your sauce.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps prevent sticking.

• Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish with its color and adds a fresh taste.

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives a zesty finish that balances the richness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.

Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic until fragrant but not browned—about 30 seconds.

Add Shrimp to Skillet: Toss in your shrimp and season with salt and red pepper flakes. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes total.

Create Sauce Base: Pour in lemon juice while adding remaining butter into the skillet. Stir everything together until melted and combined—this is where magic happens!

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain your pasta (save some water). Toss it into the skillet with shrimp mixture; add reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.

Finish with Parsley: Remove from heat; sprinkle chopped parsley over everything before serving for an added pop of freshness!

Now you’ve mastered garlic butter shrimp pasta like a pro! Enjoy every delicious bite knowing you’ve created something special right at home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente while sautéing garlic in butter. Combine everything with shrimp for a seamless dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach and cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on low heat to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.

Cooking garlic butter shrimp pasta is more than just dinner; it’s my go-to recipe when I want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp pasta?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti or linguine pairs perfectly with garlic butter sauce and shrimp.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to elevate the heat level!

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and comforting pasta, all enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this quick and easy recipe brings a burst of flavor with every bite. With its stunning presentation and versatility to accommodate various ingredients, this pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends while elevating your weeknight meals.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Shrimp: Toss in shrimp, season with salt and red pepper flakes, and cook until pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes.
4. Create Sauce Base: Pour in lemon juice and add remaining butter; stir until melted.
5. Combine Pasta: Toss drained pasta into the skillet with the shrimp mixture; add reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
6. Finish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 455
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 220mg