Description
This Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti or linguine, enhanced with fresh lemon juice, red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, and finished with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 15 minutes, this meal combines freshness and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine
Sauce and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup (120ml) of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown. Lay the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, then stir in the red pepper flakes if using and fresh lemon juice. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, starting with about ¼ cup (60ml), stirring to melt the butter and create a smooth sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp with Sauce: Return the drained pasta and cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Add more pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce consistency to your liking.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in chopped fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute linguine with fettuccine or any long pasta shape you prefer.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness and acidity in the sauce.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor and creaminess.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp – they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp pasta, quick shrimp pasta, easy shrimp dinner, garlic shrimp linguine, 15 minute pasta recipe
