Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a decadent, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic butter sauce. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a dish made with succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, served over your choice of pasta. The pasta absorbs the creamy sauce, while the shrimp adds a satisfying protein boost. It’s a well-balanced meal, combining savory, buttery flavors with a hint of citrus from lemon juice and zest.
This dish is popular in many households and restaurants for its incredible taste and ease of preparation. It’s versatile enough to be customized with various herbs, spices, and even vegetables.
Origin of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
While Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is an Americanized version of a Mediterranean-inspired dish, its roots can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where seafood and pasta are staples. The combination of butter, garlic, and shrimp reflects the simplicity of many classic Italian seafood dishes. However, over time, this dish has evolved into a popular favorite across various cultures due to its rich flavor and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp butter (additional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method of Garlic Shrimp Pasta
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain pasta and set aside.
2. Season the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the shrimp with salt and pepper, and set them aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Add 4 tbsp butter and let it melt.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (avoid burning the garlic).
5. Deglaze and Build the Sauce
- Pour in white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pan.
- Add lemon juice and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the additional 2 tbsp butter and swirl to combine.
6. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
- Toss the pasta with the garlic butter sauce.
- Add cooked shrimp back to the pan.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Remove from heat.
7. Finish and Serve
- Add lemon zest, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
- Toss everything together to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Variations
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:
- Add 1/2 cup heavy cream after the wine for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Mediterranean Style:
- Add 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved).
- Include 1/4 cup Kalamata olives.
- Use fresh basil instead of parsley.
Spicy Version:
- Increase red pepper flakes to 1/2 tsp.
- Add 1 jalapeño, finely diced for an extra kick.
Herb Butter Variation:
- Add 1 tsp fresh thyme for a more aromatic flavor.
- Include 1 tbsp fresh oregano for a burst of herbal freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking, and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I use any type of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best, you can use any pasta you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different pasta types.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. The shrimp and pasta can be cooked separately, then combined when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I substitute the white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It will still give the sauce a rich, savory flavor.
Conclusion: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings the richness of shrimp and garlic together in a creamy, savory sauce. The simple yet bold flavors make this recipe a crowd-pleaser for both casual dinners and special occasions. Whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, or Mediterranean-inspired, this recipe offers the versatility to suit your taste. With easy-to-follow instructions and a short preparation time, it’s a perfect meal for any home cook looking to impress their family or guests. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a dish made with succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, served over your choice of pasta. The pasta absorbs the creamy sauce, while the shrimp adds a satisfying protein boost. It’s a well-balanced meal, combining savory, buttery flavors with a hint of citrus from lemon juice and zest.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp butter (additional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining
- Drain pasta and set aside
2. Season the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels
- Season both sides with salt and pepper
- Set aside
3. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed)
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through
- Remove shrimp and set aside
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium
- Add 4 tbsp butter and let it melt
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes
- Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let garlic burn)
5. Deglaze and Build Sauce
- Pour in white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pan
- Add lemon juice and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes
- Add the additional 2 tbsp butter and swirl to combine
6. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet
- Toss with the garlic butter sauce
- Add cooked shrimp back to the pan
- Add pasta water gradually until you reach desired consistency
- Remove from heat
7. Finish and Serve
- Add lemon zest, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese
- Toss everything together
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper
- Serve immediately while hot
Notes
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is rich, garlicky, and comforting. For extra freshness, squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top before serving, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: ~520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: High
Keywords: Shrimp Pasta, Garlic Shrimp Pasta, Shrimp Pasta Recipe, Butter Shrimp Pasta
