Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe

When you crave something special but quick, look no further than Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy plate that’s bursting with flavor: plump shrimp, silky noodles, and a buttery garlic sauce, all tangled up with a hint of lemon and a touch of heat. One forkful and you’ll see why Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe is so often requested in my home—it’s a weeknight dinner that’s elegant enough for company and comforting enough to become a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe is how the simplest ingredients come together for something truly memorable. Each one plays a starring role—whether it’s the bright zing of lemon or the luxurious finish of butter—that’s essential to getting that dreamy texture and lively flavor.

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine): Choose your favorite long pasta; it’s the perfect base for catching all of that garlicky butter sauce.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Big, juicy shrimp cook quickly and are wonderfully meaty—you’ll want every bite coated in sauce.
• Salt and pepper: A little seasoning brings all the flavors into balance from the very start.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the shrimp sear beautifully for those golden edges and keeps the butter from burning.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided: The heart of the sauce, giving it that signature, mouthwatering richness.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: A generous amount infuses the whole dish with irresistible aroma—don’t skimp!
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): For a little lingering heat that perks up the buttery sauce—use more or less as you like.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Adds a flash of brightness and keeps each bite from feeling too heavy.
• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved): This bit of magic helps the sauce cling to every strand; don’t forget it!
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley: Fresh and vibrant, it adds color and a final flourish of flavor right before serving.
• Optional: freshly grated Parmesan, extra lemon wedges: These extras let everyone finish their own bowl just how they like it.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta just until al dente—keep an eye on it! Reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining; that starchy liquid will make your sauce silky. Set drained pasta aside while you turn your attention to the shrimp.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry and generously season with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil and just one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan! Sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until each shrimp is pink and just cooked through. Immediately remove them from the pan and set them aside—you want them juicy, not rubbery.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Drop your heat to medium and add the remaining three tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. When the butter melts and foams, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle for just a minute or two, stirring constantly, until wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown—aim for golden and aromatic, not bitter.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Add your cooked pasta straight into the skillet, followed by the reserved pasta water. Scatter over the lemon zest and pour in the lemon juice. Now toss everything together so each strand of pasta glistens with that buttery, lemony sauce. Slide the shrimp back in and toss once more until the whole dish is hot, glossy, and ready to go.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle over the fresh chopped parsley. If Parmesan’s your thing, shower it over now. Give it a quick taste—you might like a final grind of black pepper or squeeze of lemon. Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe immediately, with extra lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves a bright pop!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe

Garnishes

This dish shines with a sprinkle of fresh parsley; it brings color and a fresh note that balances the butter. I also love offering finely grated Parmesan and lemon wedges on the table, so everyone can finish their Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe to suit their own tastes—the tang of lemon or the salty, nutty hit of cheese warms up the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

You don’t need a lot of extras with this pasta, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply in olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Crusty bread is always a winner to mop up any garlic butter left on the plate—a must in my book! Blanched asparagus or sautéed spinach also round out the meal without stealing the spotlight from your Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe for a dinner party by twirling individual nests of pasta with tongs and topping each plate with a few shrimp and a flourish of parsley. Serve in a big, shallow bowl for a family-style feast, or even pile it high on a platter if you’re hosting a crowd. For a touch of luxury, drizzle the finished plates with a bit of good olive oil just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge; it will keep well for up to two days. Just be sure to store the pasta and shrimp together, so the flavors mingle and stay vibrant.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers, tightly sealed, and freeze for up to one month. Just note: the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon thawing, becoming less springy than when freshly cooked.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a pat of butter to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently to prevent the shrimp from overcooking. If microwaving, cover loosely and reheat in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep everything juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them very dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely. They’ll be delicious in your Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe.

What pasta shape works best?

Long noodles like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine do an amazing job of catching every drop of the buttery garlic sauce in Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe, but any pasta you love will work—try it with penne or even orzo for a twist.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Because shrimp cook so quickly, Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe is best served right after cooking. But you can prep the garlic and zest your lemon ahead, and even cook the pasta and shrimp earlier in the day, keeping each component separate until you’re ready to toss and serve.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes! Swap the butter for a good-quality plant-based alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese. The result will still be rich and packed with garlic and lemon flavor.

What wines pair well with Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is perfect. Their acidity lifts the flavors of the shrimp and garlic butter sauce, but a sparkling wine or even a light rosé also makes for a festive pairing with this dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making a dish that tastes as comforting as it looks impressive, and Garlic Butter Shrimp PastaRecipe is always met with happy smiles in my kitchen. Gather these humble ingredients and give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every garlicky, lemony bite. Here’s to enjoying simple dinners that truly feel like a treat!

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