Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but comes together in no time, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of those meals I always find myself turning to when I want something flavorful, comforting, and impressive, without a ton of fuss. I promise, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to it again and again!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I like how this recipe keeps things simple with a handful of classic ingredients that complement each other wonderfully. When you shop, look for fresh shrimp and good-quality Parmesan for the best results.

• Fettuccine: I prefer fettuccine because its wide noodles hold onto the buttery sauce beautifully, but you can use spaghetti or linguine if that’s what you have.
• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well; just make sure they’re peeled and deveined.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves give you that authentic pungency – I usually use 4 cloves for a nice garlic kick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a nutty depth.
• Butter: The star of the sauce – I use unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: They brighten up the dish and balance the richness with a zesty punch.
• Cooking Oil: Just a bit to sauté the garlic without burning it.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper: To enhance and season every layer of flavor.

Variations

Personalizing this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of the things I love most. Feel free to make it your own based on what’s in your fridge or your dietary preferences.

• Adding Veggies: I sometimes toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and extra nutrients – it’s a family hit!
• Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives it a nice warmth if you enjoy a bit of heat.
• Swap Shrimp for Chicken: Once, I made it with grilled chicken strips for someone who’s not a fan of seafood, and it still turned out delicious.
• Gluten-free Pasta: Use your favorite gluten-free fettuccine for a celiac-friendly version – just watch cooking times to avoid mushiness.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water – like, really salty, since this flavors the pasta itself. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes but check your package). Drain it well, and set it aside, making sure not to let it dry out. A quick tip I learned: save a little pasta water before draining – it can help loosen the sauce if needed at the end.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Cook Shrimp

Heat your cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes—be careful not to burn it! Then, add the butter and let it melt slowly. Once melted, add your shrimp. Stir gently, cooking until they turn opaque and pink, usually 4 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial; overcooked shrimp get rubbery, and that’s a texture fail we want to avoid.

Step 3: Bring It All Together with Lemon and Cheese

Now, add the fresh lemon juice and zest to that buttery shrimp mixture. This brightens the sauce and balances the richness. Sprinkle in your freshly grated Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes silky and inviting. If the sauce feels too thick, remember that reserved pasta water? Add a splash here to loosen it up perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, transfer the cooked fettuccine into the pan with the shrimp sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand of pasta is coated with that garlicky, buttery goodness. This step is when the magic really happens—don’t rush it!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

I always finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley; it adds a lovely color contrast and fresh flavor. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in – I guarantee your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe will be the star of your dinner table.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I keep it simple with freshly chopped parsley—it gives a fresh pop of color and flavor. Sometimes, a little extra Parmesan on top doesn’t hurt either, especially when serving for company.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus. They pair nicely and add some crunch and freshness to the meal. Garlic bread is another indulgent side if you want to really treat yourself.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes plate the pasta in little nests on each individual dish and garnish with a lemon twist or edible flowers. It makes dinner feel extra fancy without extra effort!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp and pasta can lose a little freshness over time, so I usually recommend enjoying this dish fresh if possible.

Freezing

I don’t freeze this recipe often because the texture of shrimp can get rubbery, and pasta can become mushy when thawed. If you do freeze it, separate the sauce from pasta first for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the pasta in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving overheated shrimp—they can dry out quickly!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it’s deceptively easy but packed with layers of flavor that feel special. The buttery sauce paired with tender shrimp and bright lemon is unbeatable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this meal hits the spot every time. Give it a go—you won’t be disappointed, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!

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