Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta 🍤🧄🍝
Buttery, garlicky, and bursting with flavor, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Juicy shrimp tossed in a rich garlic-butter sauce with tender pasta creates a silky, restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in minutes — ideal for busy weeknights or date-night dinners!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat in the buttery sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Return the shrimp to the pan, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and toss until creamy and evenly coated. Garnish with parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh garlic and good-quality butter for the richest flavor.
- Add a touch of cream for a silkier sauce, or swap in olive oil for a lighter version.
- For extra zest, top with lemon zest or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Serving Ideas
Serve with a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. A chilled glass of white wine — like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay — pairs perfectly.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: ~480 kcal | Protein: 32g | Carbs: 42g | Fat: 18g
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that proves elegance doesn’t have to be complicated. Every bite combines tender shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that feels fancy — yet is quick and easy enough to enjoy any night of the week.