Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Few dishes combine elegance and ease as beautifully as Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Tender, juicy shrimp tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce over perfectly cooked pasta – it’s the ultimate weeknight meal that’s also fancy enough for special occasions.

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I first made this recipe when I needed something quick yet impressive for dinner guests. The buttery garlic sauce and succulent shrimp were a hit, and I’ve been making it ever since. Let me show you how to create this irresistible dish in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation, and here’s why:

1. Quick and Simple: Ready in just 25-30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal.
2. Restaurant-Quality Flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a luxurious, rich flavor profile that tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant.
3. Perfectly Balanced: While rich and indulgent, the lemon juice and parsley add a refreshing brightness, making it light enough to enjoy year-round.
4. Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding veggies, switching up the pasta, or making it spicy – the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish’s incredible flavor is in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s a closer look:

• Shrimp: Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined, with tails on or off based on your preference. Fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed) work equally well.
• Pasta: Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine is ideal for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for a bold, aromatic base. Don’t skimp on this key ingredient!
• Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. It’s the star ingredient that creates a velvety, rich sauce.
• Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning and adds another layer of flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but highly recommended if you enjoy a touch of heat.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herby note and a pop of color.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This dish is simple to make and comes together in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Finish with Shrimp and Lemon: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to combine. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional parsley, grated Parmesan (optional), and a wedge of lemon. Enjoy immediately!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s so delicious, you might not!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: While the pasta may lose some of its texture upon thawing, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
2. Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and nutrients.
3. Cheesy Twist: Stir in grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a richer, creamier sauce.
4. Change the Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a different take.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a dish that fits your dietary needs.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a dish that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or a cozy solo meal, this recipe delivers every time. Happy cooking! 🍤🍝

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