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If you are looking to impress yourself or guests with a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a plate, the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This meal blends tender, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, perfectly married with al dente pasta for a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s quick, elegant, and bursting with fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dinner you’ll keep making again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Trust me when I say the simplicity of these ingredients is what makes the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe so irresistibly delicious. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the savory richness of butter, the zing of fresh lemon juice, or the subtle kick of red pepper flakes, every ingredient adds its own flair to take the dish to the next level.
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or your choice of pasta: The backbone of the dish, providing that perfect, chewy texture to carry the sauce.
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, these soak up the garlic butter sauce gorgeously.
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter: The star that adds creamy richness to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil: Helps to sauté the shrimp gently while balancing the butter’s richness with its fruity notes.
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced: Packs a fragrant punch that’s the heart and soul of this dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat that awakens your taste buds.
- 1/4 cup of dry white wine or chicken broth: Infuses a lovely depth and delicate acidity to the sauce.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the entire dish with fresh, citrusy zing.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty finish that enriches every bite.
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note to brighten the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this seasoning is key to enhancing the pasta’s natural flavor. Toss in your spaghetti and cook it just until al dente; this means it should still have a little bite to it, as it will absorb some sauce later. Before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water—you’ll thank me later for this handy hack to make your sauce silky and perfectly textured.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet over medium heat, gently melt 2 tablespoons of butter alongside 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous with a bit of heat. Keep a close eye and stir for about a minute until the aroma fills your kitchen—this step is crucial as it releases those irresistible garlic notes that make this recipe sing.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Now, add the shrimp to the fragrant garlic mix. Season with salt and fresh black pepper to bring out their natural sweetness. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until their color turns a beautiful pink and they curl just right. Don’t overcook or they become rubbery! Once done, carefully remove the shrimp and set them aside, keeping all that flavor in the pan.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Return to the skillet, adding the remaining tablespoon of butter and olive oil to the flavorful juices left behind. Pour in white wine or chicken broth along with the fresh lemon juice, scraping up any golden bits stuck to the bottom—they’re packed with flavor! Let this simmer for 2 minutes so the sauce reduces slightly and layers of taste develop beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
It’s time for the big mingle! Toss the cooked pasta back into the skillet alongside the succulent shrimp, stirring so every strand and morsel gets coated in the rich garlic butter goodness. If your sauce feels a bit thick, slowly add some of that reserved pasta water you saved—it creates a silky finish that clings beautifully to your noodles.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and vibrant chopped parsley, then toss everything together with love. These final additions add complexity and color, making the dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Plate your creation and, if you’re feeling extra, garnish with a little more Parmesan and parsley. The Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe truly shines at the moment of serving, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, fresh parsley and an extra sprinkling of Parmesan never fail to elevate the dish. You might also add a few lemon wedges on the side, allowing everyone to add a personal touch of brightness. A dash of red pepper flakes on top can add a pop of color and a little spice for those who like it hot.
Side Dishes
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple mixed green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread is also a classic companion, perfect for soaking up the decadent garlic butter sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a twirl of pasta placed neatly using tongs. Top each portion with a whole shrimp as a garnish and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can add a stunning visual flair that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp tender, it’s best to drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta before sealing to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.
Freezing
While the pasta and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. For best quality, consume within 1 month, though the texture of shrimp may be slightly affected after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s luscious texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as the shrimp can become tough. A warm skillet gently coaxing the flavors back to life is your best bet for delicious leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting your sauce. Frozen shrimp actually work great and give you flexibility if fresh isn’t available.
What if I don’t have white wine? Can I skip it?
No worries! You can substitute dry white wine with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and full-bodied.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the other ingredients. Feel free to adjust according to your heat tolerance or omit it entirely for a milder dish.
Which pasta shape works best for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Spaghetti or linguine is ideal because their long, thin shape easily captures the sauce. But really, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape—penne, fettuccine, or even angel hair will all work wonderfully.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
If you want to skip shrimp, try substituting with hearty mushrooms or tofu. For vegan adjustments, use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s a flexible recipe that welcomes creativity!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant at the same time. I truly hope you give this recipe a whirl, whether for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. Once you do, I guarantee it will become a beloved favorite, fast becoming your go-to for that irresistible garlic, buttery goodness paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine, tossed with perfectly al dente pasta and finished with parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s an easy yet elegant meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or your choice of pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and olive oil. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp in Sauce: Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water little by little to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
- Add Cheese and Parsley: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, tossing well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute dry white wine with chicken broth to keep the flavor milder or skip alcohol.
- For extra spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce consistency and helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Garnishing with extra Parmesan and parsley adds a nice fresh finish and visual appeal.
