How To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Easily In 2 Ways | It’s Delicious
If you’re craving a satisfying and flavorful meal, garlic butter shrimp pasta is the perfect dish to whip up quickly. This easy-to-make recipe combines succulent shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s bound to impress. Whether preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe has all the ingredients to become a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a delicious taste that is hard to resist.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or substitute different types of pasta to match your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pasta: 12 oz of spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta.
- Shrimp: 1 lb of large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter.
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional for a spicy kick).
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon for a burst of freshness.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped for garnish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 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 remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
4. Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked pasta, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
5. Final Touches
Stir in the lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
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Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Choose the Right Pasta
While spaghetti or fettuccine are classic choices, feel free to experiment with linguine, angel hair, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh shrimp and garlic significantly enhance the flavor of this dish. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re properly thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and lose its delicate texture.
Variations to Try
Add Vegetables
Enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor by adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
Make It Creamy
For a richer sauce, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese while preparing the garlic butter sauce.
Spice It Up
If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Add them to the skillet during the final step just to heat through, being careful not to overcook them.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450-500 (varies based on portion size and ingredients used)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
Serve and Enjoy!
Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The buttery, garlicky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while the tender shrimp add a burst of flavor and protein. With its restaurant-quality taste and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.