Need a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes? This Easy garlic butter shrimp pasta is absolutely delightful. Simple ingredients come together for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Juicy shrimp tossed in garlic butter, mixed with tender pasta, and finished with a squeeze of lemon for brightness—it’s the perfect weeknight meal.
Table of Contents
Totle Time: 60 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
aServings: 5 people
Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe Video:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta following the instructions on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Before you drain it, make sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with a little salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat as the pasta is cooking. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Take the shrimp out of the skillet and place them aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and melt over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. If you’re using red pepper flakes, toss them in now for a little kick.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Add the white wine (or chicken broth) and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to achieve a slight reduction. This helps deglaze the pan and adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
Step 5: Add Lemon and Shrimp
Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce so they’re well coated.
Step 6: Toss with Pasta
Combine the cooked pasta with the skillet contents, adding in the reserved pasta water. Mix everything well, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce. The starch in the pasta water helps to bind the sauce and makes it creamy without adding any extra ingredients.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and mix in the chopped fresh parsley. Give it a taste and tweak the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like.
Step 8: Enjoy.
Plate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta while it’s hot. It’s fresh, buttery, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying.
Tips:
- Make It Creamy: If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before adding the shrimp back to the skillet.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Leftovers: This dish is best enjoyed right away, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or butter to keep it moist.
This Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect mix of quick, flavorful, and indulgent. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy enough for a dinner party, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 460 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 240 mg |
| Sodium | 640 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 46 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Vitamin C | 35% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 10% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 15% of Daily Value |
Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Health Benefits
- High in Lean Protein: Shrimp provides lean, high-quality protein for muscle repair and overall health.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Butter contains saturated fats, but in moderation, it adds richness without a significant negative impact when balanced with a healthy diet.
- Boosts Immune System: Garlic is known for its potential immune-boosting properties.
- Supports Heart Health: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can support cardiovascular health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: The lemon and parsley offer vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant.
- Promotes Digestion: The garlic in this dish may help improve digestive health by stimulating gastric enzymes.
- Aids Bone Health: The shrimp and Parmesan provide calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong bones.
- Boosts Metabolism: Red pepper flakes, if used, can slightly increase metabolism by raising the body’s temperature.
- Low in Calories: Shrimp is low in calories but high in essential nutrients, making it a great choice for weight management.
- Blood Pressure Regulation: The potassium in parsley may help regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the shrimp can become rubbery and the pasta may lose its texture.
Reheat & Reuse Instructions
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small amount of broth, water, or butter to keep the dish moist and prevent the shrimp from overcooking.
- Microwave: Place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
Reuse:
- Shrimp Scampi Sandwich: Turn the shrimp and pasta into a filling for a garlic-butter shrimp sandwich. Just toss it on a toasted roll with some fresh greens.
- Shrimp Pasta Salad: Serve the leftovers cold as a light shrimp pasta salad by adding a drizzle of olive oil, extra lemon, and some cherry tomatoes or arugula.
This Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is quick, flavorful, and versatile, perfect for busy weeknights or even a dinner party.
FAQ’s
How do you make garlic butter shrimp for pasta?
To make garlic butter shrimp, melt butter in a skillet and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Toss them with your cooked pasta and a little pasta water for a silky finish.
What kind of pasta is best for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works best for this dish, as it allows the buttery sauce to coat the noodles evenly. Short pastas like penne or rigatoni can also be used if you prefer a heartier texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can quickly thaw shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, then patting them dry before sautéing.
How do you keep garlic butter shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Shrimp cook very quickly, so sauté them over medium-high heat for just 2-3 minutes per side. Once they turn pink and firm, remove them from the heat to prevent overcooking, which makes them tough and rubbery.
Can I add vegetables to Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Definitely! Spinach, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even peas are great additions. Sauté the veggies in the garlic butter before adding the shrimp, or toss them in at the end for a pop of color and extra flavor.
How do you make the garlic butter sauce for shrimp pasta?
The sauce is simple: melt butter in a pan, then sauté garlic until fragrant. You can add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for extra depth, and a bit of the starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles. Finish with fresh parsley or Parmesan for added richness and flavor.