Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is everything you want in a meal: flavorful, creamy, and quick to prepare. The garlic butter sauce is the star of the dish, infusing the shrimp with rich flavor while also giving the pasta a luscious coating. The shrimp cooks perfectly and adds a touch of elegance to this otherwise simple dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a date night, this recipe delivers both taste and sophistication without hours of prep time.

Ingredients

8 oz. pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine works best)
1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and reduce slightly.
Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and cook for another minute to warm through.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 25 minutes
Active time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of lemon juice and add lemon zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor.
Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Add a small can of crushed tomatoes to the sauce to make a creamy tomato variation.
Vegetable Addition: Toss in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without cream?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may not be as rich.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the pasta for your favorite type—penne, spaghetti, or any shape you prefer.

4. Can I prepare the garlic butter shrimp in advance?

You can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh for optimal texture.

5. Can I add other proteins to this dish?

Yes, you can add chicken, scallops, or even lobster to this recipe for a seafood or mixed protein version.

6. Is this recipe spicy?

It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to customize the heat level.

7. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute and omit the Parmesan cheese.

8. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

While you can use pre-cooked shrimp, it’s best to add them at the end to avoid overcooking. The shrimp only need to be heated through.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the shrimp and pasta separately and reassemble later.

10. What’s a good side dish for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables would make great side dishes to complement the pasta.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and satisfying. It’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a weekend treat. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with different flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy the rich, garlicky goodness with every bite!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or any special occasion, providing a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal. With its smooth texture and bold flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress your guests or family.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and reduce slightly.
Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Return shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and cook for 1 minute.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version or substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Variations: Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture.