Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Richly aromatic and full of crowd-pleasing flavor, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the answer to busy nights when you crave something a little bit special. Every forkful delivers glistening, tender pasta coated in velvety garlic butter, juicy shrimp sparkling with fresh lemon, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just hungry for something sensational in record time, this dinner truly feels like a treat. That’s what makes this recipe such a must-try — a dish you’ll revisit, tweak, and swoon over again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about simple ingredients coming together for a restaurant-quality meal at home. For this recipe, you’ll only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh accents. Each component brings its own flair, from the briny sweetness of the shrimp to the lush richness of real butter.

• Pasta (12 ounces): Choose spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for noodles that wrap up all the garlicky goodness.
• Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled and deveined): Plump, tail-on shrimp give this dish its signature flair. You can sub with chicken or beef for an easy twist.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, divided): Butter is the heart of this sauce, creating a luscious base for all the flavors to mingle.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): For bold aroma and that savory punch—fresh garlic makes all the difference here!
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): This blend of herbs ties everything together for a Mediterranean kick.
• Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon, optional): Add a gentle spicy warmth, or skip for a milder version.
• Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the richness and makes the shrimp shine.
• Lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon): A splash of citrus marries with the garlic and butter for irresistible freshness.
• Fresh spinach or arugula (2 cups): Greens give a pop of color and flavor that balances every bite.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Sprinkle for a fresh finish and gorgeous color.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Don’t forget these classics – they highlight all the flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): The ultimate savory topping for extra depth and creaminess.

How to Make this

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta of choice. Cook it just until al dente, because it’ll soak up more flavor with the sauce later. Remember to reserve a half cup of the starchy pasta water before you drain—it’s liquid gold for getting that silky finish.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. If you’re using shrimp, make sure they’re dry so they sear beautifully. Lay them in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and cooked through. For chicken or beef, add the seasoned strips and brown for about 4 to 5 minutes, making sure they’re fully cooked. Once done, transfer the protein to a plate and set aside—it will take a victory lap in the sauce soon!

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice), stirring frequently so the garlic turns fragrant but not brown. Add the Italian seasoning, bright lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let the flavors mingle and simmer for an extra minute, creating a base that smells like absolute heaven.

Step 4: Add the Pasta And Greens

Return your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it generously in that garlicky, buttery sauce. Drop in the spinach or arugula and watch it wilt into the warmth, giving each twirl a fresh green touch. If the noodles start to look a little dry, splash in some reserved pasta water to bring everything together.

Step 5: Combine With Protein

Now it’s time for your shrimp (or chicken or beef) to shine again! Add them back into the skillet, gently tossing so every piece is coated in the luscious sauce. Give it a quick taste and tweak the salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Take the skillet off the heat and shower everything with chopped parsley for a lively burst of green. If you’re a cheese lover, a handful of grated Parmesan on top never hurts. Serve immediately—either plated or straight from the pan for a laid-back, family-style vibe.

How to Serve this

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference with this pasta! Sprinkle plenty of bright, fresh parsley over the top, then follow with a snowfall of grated Parmesan for savory richness. A grind of black pepper or a final squeeze of lemon juice amps up both the flavor and the presentation, making every bite pop.

Side Dishes

While this pasta is perfectly satisfying on its own, it pairs so well with a crisp green salad drizzled in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread that’s perfect for swiping up extra sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes round out the plate and add color to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful and dish this onto wide bowls and twirl into elegant nests for guests, or keep it cozy by serving family-style right in the skillet for everyone to dig in together. Feeling lunch-y? Serve leftovers cold as a pasta salad, or pile some of this on toasted bread for a deluxe open-faced sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any of this pasta left, transfer it into an airtight container while it’s still fresh. Store in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors just keep mingling and getting better, which makes lunches something to look forward to.

Freezing

While freezing shrimp pasta can change the texture a bit, it’s definitely doable. Let everything cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to one month; try to avoid repeated thaw and re-freeze cycles for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of reserved (or just plain) water or a drizzle more butter to restore the sauce’s silkiness. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but keep the power low to avoid rubbery shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely—just make sure you thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This small step helps achieve a satisfying sear and prevents waterlogging the sauce.

What other proteins work well in this pasta?

This dish is fantastically versatile! Try chopped cooked chicken, thinly sliced steak, or even a seasoned tofu for a plant-based twist. Just cook your alternative protein first and follow the method as outlined.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Of course! Mushrooms, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini all mingle beautifully with the garlic butter sauce. Sauté them after the garlic but before adding the pasta for extra color and nutrition.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that the other ingredients you’re using are gluten-free—most are by nature, but it never hurts to peek at labels.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp only need a few minutes total—keep an eye out and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and slightly firm. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so err on the side of slightly underdone since they’ll warm up again when combined at the end.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a dinner that’s equal parts easy, elegant, and completely craveable, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is bound to become a staple at your table. Don’t wait for a special occasion to try this; invite a little everyday luxury into your week and see just how joyful comfort food can be!

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