Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

I love whipping up Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta when I want a delicious yet quick meal. The combination of succulent shrimp tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that sings with flavor and elegance while only taking about 30 minutes to prepare. Whenever I serve this dish, everyone at the table is left asking for seconds! It’s perfect for those weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something that feels gourmet without the hassle.

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:22:27.321Z

I've been perfecting my Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for years, experimenting with different types of pasta and seasonings. One trick I've learned is to sauté the shrimp quickly over high heat; this locks in their juices and gives them the perfect sear. My family loves how the buttery garlic sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.

Another great tip I discovered is the addition of a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking. It brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor without being overwhelming. It's a little detail that makes a big difference and turns this everyday meal into something special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory garlic butter creates an irresistible aroma while cooking.
Succulent shrimp perfectly complement the al dente pasta.
Quick and easy for a gourmet meal in just 30 minutes.

Perfecting the Pasta

To achieve the ideal pasta texture for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, it's crucial to cook the pasta al dente. This means it should be firm yet tender, providing the perfect bite against the succulent shrimp. Keep a close eye on it, as cooking times can vary; usually, around 8-10 minutes is sufficient for spaghetti or fettuccine. After draining, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to help adjust the sauce's consistency later.

While cooking the pasta, ensure you include a generous amount of salt in the boiling water. This is the only opportunity to season the pasta itself, which will enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish. A good rule of thumb is to make the water taste like seawater. Also, tossing the drained pasta with a splash of olive oil can help prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.

Mastering the Shrimp

The shrimp are the star of this dish, so it’s essential to choose high-quality, fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that are slightly translucent and smell like the ocean—anything overly fishy indicates they're not fresh. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry to ensure they sear properly and develop that appealing golden color during cooking.

When sautéing the shrimp, use medium-high heat to achieve a good sear. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, which prevents that sought-after texture. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes on each side. This not only affects the flavor but also the visual appeal of your finished dish.

Flavor Enhancements

Garlic is the hero in this dish, so be generous! Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter, creating a delicious aroma. However, be cautious not to burn it as it can turn bitter; sauté it just until fragrant—about 1 minute. If you love a bit of heat, adjusting the red pepper flakes allows you to control the spice level. Feel free to add more or substitute with fresh chopped chili for a different flavor layer.

For a touch of brightness, the addition of lemon juice balances the richness of the butter and complements the shrimp beautifully. If you’re looking to experiment, consider adding a splash of white wine before incorporating the pasta for a deeper flavor envelopment. And remember, fresh parsley not only adds color but an herbaceous freshness that ties all the ingredients together.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, adding the reserved pasta water gradually until reaching the desired consistency. Stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix well.

Serve

Plate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cherry tomatoes or spinach just before serving.

Storing and Reheating

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a bit of olive oil to ensure the pasta doesn’t dry out. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through to preserve the texture of the shrimp.

If you wish to prepare this dish ahead of time for convenience, consider pre-cooking the pasta and shrimp, then storing them separately. Combine them with the sauce just before serving to ensure everything retains its optimal texture. This method can save time on busy nights while still delivering a restaurant-quality experience.

Variations and Substitutions

You can easily customize this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta to fit different dietary needs or personal preferences. For a gluten-free version, swap the traditional pasta with chickpea or zucchini noodles. Each alternative brings unique flavors and textures, transforming the dish while still maintaining a gourmet appeal.

If shrimp isn’t your preferred protein, consider substituting with scallops or even chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—chicken generally requires a longer cooking time to reach the internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust the sautéing time accordingly to get the best results while ensuring the proteins are safely cooked.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The garlic bread can soak up any leftover butter sauce, making it a delightful addition. A salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing contrast.

For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing the plated dish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides guests an option to add more zest as they wish. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a final touch of indulgence, contributing a savory finish that complements the garlic butter perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and fettuccine are popular choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and combine with cooked pasta just before serving.