Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Dishes

When I crave something comforting yet sophisticated, I love making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines succulent shrimp with al dente pasta enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that never fails to impress. I enjoy serving it on special occasions, and it’s become a favorite among my friends and family. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:36:35.496Z

As I experimented with different pasta recipes, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of garlic and shrimp. I find that sautéing the garlic in butter until it’s fragrant truly elevates the dish. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine, and I love how quickly it comes together!

One tip I’ve learned is to choose plump shrimp and not overcook them, as they'll turn rubbery. After tossing everything together with freshly squeezed lemon juice, it transforms into a comforting meal that tastes gourmet without the hassle.

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp coated in rich garlic butter sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes
Perfectly paired with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon

Choosing the Right Pasta

For this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, spaghetti or linguine are excellent choices due to their ability to hold onto the luscious garlic butter sauce. I recommend using dried pasta, as fresh pasta can become mushy too quickly when mixed with the sauce. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the shrimp. A good visual cue is to taste it a minute or two before the package's suggested time, ensuring that it retains a bit of bite.

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using chickpea or rice pasta. However, these may have different cooking times and textures; make sure to follow the package instructions closely to achieve the best results. The flavor will still come through beautifully, so don’t shy away from experimenting.

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Herbs

Garlic is the star of this dish, contributing a rich, aromatic base. When sautéing, keep an eye on the garlic; it should turn golden and fragrant, not brown. Browning will result in a bitter taste that could overshadow the dish's delicate flavors. To really enhance that garlicky goodness, I recommend using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties, as fresh offers a brighter and more potent taste.

In addition to fresh parsley for garnish, consider adding herbs like basil or thyme to the sauté for an added layer of flavor. I often experiment with a bit of fresh lemon zest as well, adding a vibrant note that complements the shrimp beautifully. Just sprinkle in a little zest as the shrimp cook for a lively twist.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss again. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, serve immediately.

For an extra touch, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter while cooking the shrimp.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy evenings, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance. Sauté the garlic and shrimp, then allow them to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta just before serving, and you'll have a meal ready in under 10 minutes.

Another way to prep ahead is to clean and devein your shrimp the day before. Store them chilled in a sealed bag to keep them fresh. This not only cuts down on prep time but also ensures you have perfectly seasoned shrimp ready to go when you're ready for cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or an extra pat of butter to help rehydrate the pasta and prevent drying out. Use a skillet over medium heat for the best results, stirring often until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.

If you wish to freeze the dish, store the pasta and shrimp separately to preserve texture. The pasta can be frozen for up to a month, while cooked shrimp are best used within 2 weeks. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as instructed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking!

→ What pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine is ideal, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make it spicy?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce!

→ Can I substitute the butter?

You can use olive oil for a healthier option, though it may change the flavor slightly.