Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner. The combination of juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. This dish is light yet satisfying, with a balance of fresh flavors and creamy textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh shrimp for a flavorful meal.
• Versatile – Can be customized with different pasta types, spice levels, or added vegetables.
• Restaurant-Quality – But at a fraction of the price and effort!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Season shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
• Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, add butter and remaining olive oil. Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
• Pour in chicken broth (or white wine) and let it simmer for 2 minutes. If using heavy cream, stir it in at this point.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Add shrimp back to the skillet.
• If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Plate the pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve immediately!

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
• Creamy Version – Add heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken or scallops.
• Veggie Additions – Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long to prevent rubbery texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Shrimp cook very quickly—just 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them tough, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in cold water before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine are great choices, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with extra olive oil and skip the Parmesan cheese.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic butter flavors beautifully.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through; otherwise, they can become overcooked.

How can I make this healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the butter, and add extra vegetables for a nutritious boost.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead and cook everything quickly when ready.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables pairs perfectly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large skillet to ensure even cooking and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is an easy yet impressive dish that brings bold flavors to your table in just minutes. Whether you keep it light or make it creamy, this pasta dish is guaranteed to become a favorite. Try it tonight for a stress-free, delicious meal!

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