There’s nothing like the mouthwatering aroma of garlic butter shrimp pasta sizzling on the stove. Juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce come together to create a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make.

I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick yet impressive. It’s now my go-to for dinner parties and weeknight meals alike, loved by kids and adults. Ready to dive into this irresistible dish? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with the simplicity and elegance of garlic butter shrimp pasta. This recipe combines classic flavors in a way that feels indulgent but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. You can have this delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Second, it’s a one-pan wonder. Apart from boiling the pasta, everything else happens in a single skillet, which means less cleanup for you and more time to enjoy your meal.

Third, the recipe is endlessly versatile. You can swap out the shrimp for chicken, add your favorite vegetables, or even use gluten-free pasta. It’s a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Finally, the flavor is unforgettable. The combination of buttery garlic, plump shrimp, and al dente pasta is comfort food at its finest, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese takes it to the next level.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of garlic butter shrimp pasta lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to the rich, savory flavor that makes this dish a standout.

Shrimp: Use large, raw shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Peel and devein them before cooking, and pat them dry to ensure a perfect sear.
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine work wonderfully, but you can use any long pasta you have on hand. Cook it just until al dente to hold up to the sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must. It’s the heart of the sauce, infusing the butter with its aromatic goodness.
Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of these fats creates a luscious base for the sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add just a hint of heat without overpowering the dish. Adjust to your spice preference.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides a salty, nutty finish that ties all the flavors together.
Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness.

Special Equipment: A large skillet is key for cooking the shrimp and tossing the pasta with the sauce. A microplane grater is also handy for grating Parmesan and zesting lemon.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Creating this delectable dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect plate of garlic butter shrimp pasta every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems dry.

Step 5: Add Shrimp and Finish

Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with a squeeze of lemon juice and ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together and garnish with chopped parsley.

Serve immediately, and enjoy every buttery, garlicky bite!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this pasta stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Freezer: While pasta can be tricky to freeze, this dish holds up reasonably well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about garlic butter shrimp pasta is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Protein Swap: Replace the shrimp with diced chicken breast, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone for an ultra-luxurious sauce.

Experimenting with these variations ensures this dish will never get old!

This garlic butter shrimp pasta is destined to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something quick yet decadent, this recipe delivers every time. Try it tonight, and let the rich, garlicky goodness work its magic!