Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red chili flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a quick yet impressive meal. The combination of succulent shrimp cooked in rich garlic butter with perfectly al dente pasta makes for a flavorful dish that always leaves everyone asking for seconds. It's a perfect weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat, and each bite is a delightful experience. This recipe is simple to follow, and you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes. Trust me, it's a flavorful journey you won’t want to miss!

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:50:27.487Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe that has quickly become a family favorite. The key to achieving a rich flavor lies in sautéing the shrimp until they’re just opaque and still tender. Adding freshly chopped parsley at the end elevates the dish with a burst of freshness.

After trying various combinations, I found that using a mix of lemon juice and chili flakes brings the flavors together beautifully. The hints of spice complement the garlic butter perfectly, creating a dish that’s both simple and elegant. Don’t skip on the garlic—it’s truly the star of this recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp enveloped in luscious garlic butter
Pasta cooked to perfection with hints of lemon
A quick yet elegant meal for any occasion

Perfectly Al Dente Pasta

Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. When boiling spaghetti, aim to taste it a minute or two before the package's suggested cooking time. It should have a slight firmness when bitten. Be careful not to overcook it; soggy pasta will absorb too much sauce and lose its individual texture.

Another tip is to reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be a great addition to your final dish, helping to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles. Just add a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

The Role of Garlic and Lemon

Garlic is the star of the show in this recipe, providing a rich depth of flavor. To release the maximum aroma and taste, chop or mince the garlic just before adding it to the pan. Cook it on medium heat for just a minute to avoid burning, which can turn its flavor bitter. If you want a stronger garlic taste, you could increase the amount slightly without overpowering the dish.

Lemon juice not only brightens the overall flavor but also balances the richness of the butter. Using fresh lemon juice is essential; the bottled version often lacks the vibrant acidity and fresh flavor that complements the shrimp and garlic. To maximize juice yield, roll the lemon on the counter with your palm before cutting it in half.

Enhancing with Herbs and Spices

Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness to the dish. If you want to experiment, consider adding other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Just remember to add them at the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors.

The red chili flakes bring a gentle heat that enhances the dish without overpowering it. If you prefer it spicier, increase the amount, or try adding fresh chopped chilies for a different dimension. Conversely, for a milder dish, you can simply leave them out or reduce the quantity.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red chili flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to have everything ready to create this delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water and the lemon juice to create a light sauce. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider a splash of white wine after sautéing the shrimp. If you like it spicier, adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a quick weeknight meal, you can prepare the shrimp ahead of time. Clean and devein them, then marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes for up to an hour in the refrigerator. This way, when it's time to cook, the shrimp will absorb all those flavors, ensuring a more robust taste.

If you find yourself with leftover pasta, it can be easily stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to bring moisture back into the dish while heating it gently in a skillet.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A light white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the flavors wonderfully, making for a well-rounded meal that can impress at any gathering.

For an elevated touch, consider garnishing the dish with shaved Parmesan or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving. These little extras enhance both presentation and flavor, turning a simple meal into something special.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish! You can substitute shrimp with other proteins, such as chicken or scallops, while adjusting cooking times accordingly. For a vegetarian version, using mushrooms or zucchini noodles can provide a satisfying alternative without losing the essence of a classic pasta dish.

Adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a colorful presentation. Sauté them briefly with the garlic before adding the shrimp for a complete, wholesome meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking!

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta you like, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil instead for a lighter option.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach or cherry tomatoes would complement the flavors nicely.