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5 from 30 reviews

Craving something quick yet fancy? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is your go-to for a dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss. Rich garlic butter, juicy shrimp, and tender noodles come together in one irresistible bite. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a date-night surprise, this dish delivers elegance and flavor in minutes. Ready in a flash, but tastes like you cooked all day. Serve it hot and enjoy every twirl!

Ingredients

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best)

Protein:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Optional substitution: 1 pound boneless chicken breast or flank steak, sliced thinly

Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or arugula
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook The Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of cooking water. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook The Protein: Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet. Cook shrimp or protein until done. Set aside.
  3. Prepare The Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt remaining butter in skillet. Add garlic, seasonings, lemon zest, and juice. Let simmer.
  4. Add The Pasta And Greens: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Add spinach and wilt slightly. Add reserved water if needed.
  5. Combine With Protein: Add cooked protein back to skillet, toss gently to reheat.
  6. Garnish And Serve: Sprinkle with parsley, Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best results.
  • Avoid overcooking shrimp or meat to prevent toughness.
  • Save pasta water to enhance the sauce’s consistency.
  • Adjust garlic amount based on preference.
  • Feel free to add extra veggies like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/garlic-butter-shrimp-pasta-recipe/