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 oz spaghetti or linguine; Salt for pasta water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Plates

I absolutely love cooking Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta because it's a dish that always impresses with its rich flavors and simplicity. The buttery garlic sauce envelops the shrimp beautifully, and when it’s tossed with al dente pasta, every bite is pure bliss. I typically whip this up for a quick weeknight dinner, but it’s elegant enough to serve for special occasions. The key to elevating this dish lies in using fresh shrimp and a good quality butter, which I learned makes all the difference in taste and texture.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:49:35.953Z

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta has become one of my go-to recipes because of how quickly it comes together and how comforting it is. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was amazed at how a handful of ingredients could create such depth of flavor. One little tip I've adopted is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant—this prevents it from burning and becoming bitter.

When it comes to the shrimp, I always opt for the largest ones I can find. They not only make for a more visually appealing dish but also pack in more flavor. The combination of garlic and butter makes the shrimp succulent, and when mixed with the fresh herbs and pasta, it’s an explosion of taste that never fails to satisfy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that elevates any meal
Succulent shrimp that pairs perfectly with pasta
Quick and easy recipe, ready in just 30 minutes

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this dish, and mastering it is key to achieving the perfect flavor balance. When sautéing the garlic, keep the heat at medium; too high a temperature can scorch it, resulting in a bitter taste. You should aim for a fragrant aroma and a slight golden hue, usually around 1 minute of cooking time. If you notice the garlic beginning to brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately.

Incorporating red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick, but gauge your tolerance for spice. A quarter teaspoon provides a moderate heat level that complements the buttery richness without overpowering it. If you're serving this dish to family or guests who prefer milder flavors, feel free to omit the flakes entirely. The beauty of this garlic butter sauce lies in its adaptability—you can adjust the flavor profile based on your preferences.

Choosing the Right Shrimp

For this recipe, selecting high-quality shrimp can elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta significantly. Fresh, high-quality shrimp will possess a firm texture and sweet flavor, which enhances the overall dish. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can be a suitable alternative—just be sure to properly thaw them before use to retain their texture. Run them under cold water for 10-15 minutes if you need a quick thaw.

When peeling and deveining shrimp, always opt for large shrimp, as their size holds up better to cooking and pairs well with pasta. The general rule is to look for shrimp marked as '16/20' on the packaging, indicating there are 16 to 20 shrimp per pound. This size ensures they remain juicy and succulent even after sautéing, allowing each bite to be a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt for pasta water

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in the red pepper flakes, if using.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce. Finish with lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce before tossing in the pasta.

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers, store any uneaten Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the pasta will absorb some of the sauce during storage, so it may become slightly drier when reheated. To remedy this, add a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating to restore some moisture.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat for even warming without making the shrimp rubbery. Stir frequently and add a bit of reserved pasta water or more garlic butter, if necessary, to revive that luscious texture. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp—30-second intervals are recommended to maintain tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be enhanced with a few simple side dishes. A light arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. I also recommend serving it with crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce, making every bite truly enjoyable. For a burst of color, consider garnishing the dish with lemon wedges and additional parsley just before serving.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes or spinach during the final steps of cooking. These not only add vibrant color but also contribute additional nutrients and flavor. You can toss in halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness or a couple of cups of fresh spinach, which wilts beautifully in the residual heat, creating an even more vibrant and delicious meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini make excellent additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.