Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a dish that dances on your taste buds, with its rich, buttery sauce and succulent shrimp that brings the ocean’s freshest flavors right to your dinner table. Each bite offers a delightful combination of garlic and herbs, making it utterly irresistible for any pasta lover. Imagine twirling those perfectly cooked noodles around your fork while savoring the mouthwatering aroma wafting from the pan.
This dish holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made garlic butter shrimp pasta for my family; we gathered around the dining table, laughter filling the air as we dug into this creamy delight. It’s become our go-to meal for special occasions, and let me tell you, nothing beats the look on their faces when they take that first delicious bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This garlic butter shrimp pasta is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
- The vibrant colors of the shrimp and pasta create an eye-catching dish
- It’s versatile enough to serve on a weeknight or at a fancy dinner party
- Perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
I whipped up this garlic butter shrimp pasta last week for my friends, and their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Spaghetti or Linguine: Choose your favorite type of pasta; both work beautifully with garlic butter sauce.
Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure they are peeled and deveined for ease.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you complete control over seasoning while enhancing flavors.
Fresh Garlic: Use fresh cloves for that pungent aroma that fills your kitchen with joy.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to balance rich flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these based on your spice tolerance; they give a mild kick to the dish.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens up flavors, making everything taste more vibrant.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess and depth; don’t skip this crucial component!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the shrimp and cook until pink, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Add Flavor Boosters: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the skillet for heat, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything. Stir well to combine all those zesty flavors.
Toss with Pasta: Drain pasta, reserving some cooking water. Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with shrimp mixture. Toss gently while adding reserved water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Add Finishing Touches: Stir in freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese; mix until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—this is where you can shine!
Strongly recommend serving immediately while it’s still warm! Enjoy with crusty bread or a crisp salad for a perfect meal.
This delightful garlic butter shrimp pasta will surely become one of your favorite recipes! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This garlic butter shrimp pasta recipe is quick, delicious, and perfect for impressing guests
- The aroma of garlic and herbs fills your kitchen, making it a feast for the senses
- Remember, fresh ingredients elevate the dish to gourmet status!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta in salted water until al dente while you sauté the shrimp in garlic butter. This keeps everything hot and fresh for serving.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Customizing keeps it exciting and personalizes each meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to revive creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality shrimp for better flavor; frozen shrimp works too, just thaw properly
- Always taste your pasta before draining to ensure perfect doneness
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a burst of freshness that elevates every bite
When I first made garlic butter shrimp pasta for friends, they couldn’t believe how easy it was! Their compliments filled my kitchen with joy, making me feel like a culinary superstar.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
What type of pasta works best?
Linguine or spaghetti pairs beautifully with garlic butter sauce.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add red pepper flakes during cooking for a delightful kick!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Perfectly cooked spaghetti or linguine is enveloped in this savory mix, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This quick and easy recipe will have you twirling your fork in no time, delivering vibrant flavors and aromas that will impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti or linguine until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and squeeze lemon juice over the mixture. Stir to combine.
- Combine drained pasta with the shrimp mixture in the skillet, tossing gently while adding reserved pasta water if necessary for creaminess.
- Mix in chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
