Irresistible and Simple Garlic Shrimp Pasta You Can’t Get Enough Of

Craving something quick yet satisfying? This garlic butter shrimp pasta is the answer. It combines succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.

In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Loaded with flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a special date night in. The garlic brings a punch, while the butter adds a luxurious touch, making every bite a delight.

Irresistible and Simple Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garlic butter shrimp pasta topped with parsley and Parmesan cheese on a rustic table.

This garlic shrimp pasta features tender shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente spaghetti. It’s a perfect blend of flavors, creating a comforting and indulgent dish.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
  4. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  5. Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Fat: 18g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g

Overview of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with the richness of garlic and butter, creating a memorable meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or more intimate settings, it’s a true crowd-pleaser.

The interplay of flavors in this pasta dish makes it a go-to recipe for anyone craving comfort food with a gourmet touch.
With each bite, you’ll experience the tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce that coats everything just right.

Ingredients That Shine

To prepare this delicious pasta, you need a handful of quality ingredients.
Fresh shrimp, preferably large and peeled, are essential for that juicy texture, while spaghetti or linguine provides the perfect base.

Complementing the seafood are aromatic garlic and rich butter, which create a sumptuous sauce.
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a hint of heat, while fresh parsley and lemon juice enhance the flavors with brightness.

Cooking Process

The process begins with boiling the pasta in salted water until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
This step is crucial as it provides the right foundation for the dish.

Next, a generous amount of butter is melted in a skillet, followed by the addition of minced garlic.
As the garlic sizzles, it infuses the butter with its aromatic flavors, setting the stage for the shrimp.

Bringing It All Together

Once the shrimp are added to the skillet, they cook quickly—turning pink and opaque in just a few minutes.
This ensures they remain tender and juicy, enhancing the overall dish.

After the shrimp are cooked, the drained pasta is tossed in the skillet, allowing it to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce.
If needed, a splash of reserved pasta water can be added to achieve the desired consistency, creating a silky, cohesive dish.

Presentation and Serving

To serve, plate the pasta elegantly, ensuring plenty of shrimp sits atop the noodles.
A finishing touch of chopped parsley provides a vibrant pop of color, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds flavor and visual appeal.

Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Set the table with care, and you’ll be ready for a delightful dining experience.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

This garlic butter shrimp pasta serves four and is a satisfying meal option, clocking in at approximately 450 calories per serving.
It’s not only rich in protein from the shrimp but also provides a comforting carbohydrate base from the pasta.

Those with shellfish allergies should avoid this dish, as shrimp is a primary ingredient.
If dairy is a concern, Parmesan can be omitted or replaced with a dairy-free alternative without compromising the overall quality of the dish.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for garlic shrimp pasta?

Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine pairs perfectly with garlic shrimp pasta. The sauce clings beautifully to these types, enhancing every bite.

How do I keep shrimp from becoming rubbery when cooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them tough, so keep a close eye on them.

Can I make garlic shrimp pasta ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead. Just toss everything together and warm gently before serving.

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