Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish you can make in under 30 minutes. It features plump, juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and herbs, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s luxurious yet simple enough for a weeknight.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
· 8 oz (225g) linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti
· Salt for pasta water
For the Shrimp:
· 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)
· ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
· ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter
· 6–8 garlic cloves, minced
· ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
· ½ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or substitute with chicken broth
· ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
· 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
· ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
· 2 tbsp fresh basil or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
· Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
· Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.
- Season & Sear the Shrimp
· Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
· In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
· Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
· In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
· Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not burn).
· Pour in white wine (or broth) and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
· Stir in lemon juice and half of the parsley.
- Combine & Finish
· Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss well to coat in the sauce.
· If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
· Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
· Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve
· Garnish with remaining parsley, fresh basil or chives, extra Parmesan, and a lemon wedge on the side.
· Serve immediately with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Tips for Success
· Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly and will become rubbery if overdone.
· Use fresh garlic and herbs: They make a noticeable difference in flavor.
· Add vegetables: Sliced cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus can be added to the sauce for extra nutrition.
· For a creamy version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half with the Parmesan.
· Wine substitute: If avoiding alcohol, use chicken or vegetable broth with a squeeze of lemon.
Why This Dish Works
It’s all about balancing rich butter, pungent garlic, bright lemon, and savory shrimp—a combination that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort. The pasta water starch helps the sauce cling perfectly to every strand.
Enjoy your effortlessly elegant, flavor-packed Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta! 🍤🍝✨