Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce tossed over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ideal meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something elegant yet easy to prepare.

The Story Behind Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic and butter are a match made in heaven, especially when paired with tender shrimp. This classic Italian-American dish is a favorite in many households due to its simplicity and robust flavor. The buttery sauce, combined with garlic and a hint of lemon, brings out the sweetness of the shrimp while adding richness to the pasta. With origins in the Mediterranean, this dish has become a go-to comfort meal in the U.S.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Shrimp

Shrimp are the star of this dish, offering a tender, juicy bite that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce. Use fresh or frozen large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best results.

• Pro Tip: For a more intense shrimp flavor, cook the shrimp shells separately to make a quick stock and add it to the sauce.

Garlic

Garlic is essential for this dish, providing a robust, savory flavor that complements the richness of the butter. Use freshly minced garlic for the best taste.

• Substitution Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the sauce.

Butter

Butter forms the base of the sauce, adding creaminess and depth to the dish. It helps to coat the pasta and shrimp with a rich, luxurious flavor.

Pasta

Spaghetti or linguine works best for this dish, as these pasta shapes hold onto the sauce well. However, you can use any long pasta you prefer.

• Pro Tip: Reserve some of the pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional, for deglazing)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. If using, add the white wine to the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Stir in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, and toss everything together with the garlic butter sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
2. Serve the pasta warm, with extra Parmesan on the side if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove with a side of garlic bread or a light Caesar salad. For a special touch, serve with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but be mindful that reheating shrimp can make it slightly tougher.

Variations and Add-Ins

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

For a creamier version, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce after sautéing the garlic, and let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the shrimp and pasta.

Spicy Shrimp Pasta

If you like heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes and add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Veggie-Packed Shrimp Pasta

Toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a healthier, veggie-packed meal.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Low-Carb: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb version.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Reheat them gently in a skillet and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the butter and garlic mixture before adding the liquid.