Irresistible Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe for Dinner

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture plump shrimp, perfectly cooked and nestled in a bed of al dente pasta, all coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that wafts through your kitchen like an aromatic hug. It’s the perfect blend of savory and satisfying, with a sprinkle of parsley on top for that gourmet touch that says, “I totally know what I’m doing in the kitchen.”

Every time I whip up this garlic butter shrimp pasta, I’m transported back to summer evenings spent on my grandmother’s porch, where she would serve her famous pasta while we laughed and leisurely sipped our lemonade. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia and joy. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a romantic date night, this recipe guarantees smiles and full bellies.

I still remember the first time I made this garlic butter shrimp pasta for my friends; they practically begged me for the recipe after their first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti or Linguine: Choose your favorite long pasta to perfectly hold onto that creamy garlic sauce.

• Large Shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp work best; make sure they’re deveined for easy eating.

• Fresh Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic for the most robust flavor; avoid pre-minced versions if possible.

• Butter: Go for unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your dish.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; use flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.

• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds just the right amount of heat to elevate the dish.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully; don’t skip it!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your spaghetti or linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt half of the butter. Once melted, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side.

Add Garlic: Reduce heat slightly and toss in minced garlic along with red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant—about 30 seconds—taking care not to let it burn.

Create the Sauce: Pour in remaining butter followed by fresh lemon juice. Mix well until combined, allowing everything to come together into a silky sauce.

Toss Everything Together: Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with shrimp and sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly until all strands are coated in that delicious garlic butter.

Add Final Touches: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley along with extra salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while it’s hot and aromatic!

Cooking this garlic butter shrimp pasta is not just about following steps; it’s about creating something delightful that brings people together around the table—and trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic in butter until fragrant, then add shrimp. Cook pasta while preparing sauce for maximum efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking.

Cooking garlic butter shrimp pasta is a cherished family tradition, often sparking laughter and joyful chatter around the dinner table—it’s hard to resist seconds!

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp pasta?

Yes, just thaw them before cooking for best results.

What kind of pasta works best with this dish?

Linguine or spaghetti complements the sauce beautifully, but feel free to experiment!

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for extra heat.