Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Favorites

I love whipping up Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta on weeknights when I crave something indulgent yet quick. The succulent shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with perfectly al dente pasta creates a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can transform into something so flavorful. In just 30 minutes, I can set this dish on the table and impress anyone, from family members to unexpected guests. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that I keep coming back to.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:56:39.188Z

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is one of my favorite culinary adventures. I recall the first time I prepared it; the aromatic garlic wafting through the kitchen instantly triggered my hunger. I discovered that sautéing the shrimp until they just turn pink creates the perfect balance, keeping them tender yet infused with flavor. The addition of fresh parsley right before serving elevates the dish, offering a hint of freshness that complements the buttery sauce beautifully.

Another time, I experimented with this recipe by adding a splash of lemon juice, which brightened the flavors remarkably. I aimed for a creamy texture without any cream, relying solely on the buttery sauce. This little tweak not only deepened the taste but also made the dish feel a touch gourmet. I think that’s the beauty of this recipe—you can always put your own twist on it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp
Creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Pasta

When preparing the linguine or spaghetti, it’s crucial to salt your water generously—this is the only chance to season the pasta itself. Bringing the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta helps to prevent sticking. Cook it until just al dente, which typically means 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures that the pasta retains a bit of bite, which is essential for holding up against the rich garlic butter sauce later.

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta, which can lead to a mushy texture that won't hold up in a creamy sauce. To avoid this, keep a close eye on your timer and taste the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up. If the pasta is firm to the bite and slightly undercooked, it will absorb more of the sauce and complement the shrimp beautifully.

The Role of Garlic and Butter

The combination of garlic and butter not only infuses the shrimp with flavor but also helps to create a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta. For best results, use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, as the fresh version provides a more robust and aromatic flavor. When sautéing, cook the garlic just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—to prevent burning, which can cause bitterness in the dish.

For those watching their fat intake, a substitution can be made by using olive oil instead of butter; however, this may reduce the creaminess of the sauce. Alternatively, using a combination of half butter and half olive oil allows you to retain that rich flavor while being a bit lighter. Additionally, using salted butter can enhance the overall seasoning of the dish, so adjust any added salt accordingly.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be paired wonderfully with a light side salad or garlic bread, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for added heat. This dish is not only beautiful but can also impress unexpected guests with its simplicity and phenomenal flavor.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid drying out the shrimp and pasta. Adding a splash of pasta water or a little more butter can help revive the glossy sauce. This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the shrimp's texture, which can become rubbery upon thawing.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

Ingredients

12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Now that you have everything, let's cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the pasta

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

Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine flavors

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the remaining butter, lemon juice, and half of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined, adding more pasta water as necessary to create a smooth sauce.

Finish and serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately, garnished with more parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some diced tomatoes or a splash of white wine while sautéing the shrimp.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you find yourself without shrimp, this dish can also be made with chicken or even scallops. For chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces and sauté until golden brown before adding the garlic. If you're using scallops, be sure to sear them quickly for 1-2 minutes per side, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.

For a vegetarian option, you could replace the shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Simply sauté the veggies until they are tender and begin to caramelize, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This alteration still provides a wonderful texture and flavor profile, though the dish will have a different character.

Enhancing Flavor Variations

Experimenting with flavor can elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta significantly. Consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the shrimp for extra depth; it adds a nice acidity that balances the richness of the butter. Simmer it until it's reduced by half before tossing in the pasta, which deepens the overall flavor.

Another fantastic addition could be fresh herbs such as basil or thyme; stir them in just before serving for a pop of freshness. These herbs can really brighten up the creamy sauce, making it feel even more indulgent yet light. Don't hesitate to play around with different combinations to find your favorite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for linguine?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-cook the pasta and shrimp and store them separately, then combine and heat before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian option.