Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This is a super creamy and delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe that is perfect for a family dinner.

Making shrimp with pasta is truly easy and rewarding. The taste has always been delicious, but when you add garlic and butter, it becomes perfect. I believe this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is an amazing dish for pasta lovers!

I made the Garlic Butter Shrimp separately and cooked the pasta on its own. Then, I combined them to create that delicious mix of flavors, that all my family loves a lot.

What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a yummy dish with shrimp cooked in buttery garlic sauce and mixed with pasta. It’s easy to make and tastes so good! A little lemon juice and cheese make it extra special, and everyone will enjoy it, whether it’s a quick dinner or a fancy meal.

You Should Try the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Why try this recipe? It’s quick, easy, and super tasty! The buttery garlic shrimp and pasta come together for a meal that tastes like it’s from a restaurant. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seafood while keeping it yummy for kids and the whole family.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

• 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340g) spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup reserved pasta water
• 1 lemon, juiced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp, seasoning them with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the reserved pasta water and lemon juice, scraping the skillet to deglaze.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently in the garlic butter sauce.
2. Return the shrimp to the skillet, mixing everything together.
3. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta warm with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley for garnish.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Helpful Tips!

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Control the Spice: Skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps it hold up better in the sauce.
• Save the Pasta Water: It’s key to creating a silky sauce.
• Prep Ingredients First: Having everything ready speeds up the cooking process.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: They cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with a fresh Caesar salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce. Also, a side of creamy mashed potatoes can make the meal more cozy and delicious.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them before cooking.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

Try Pecorino Romano or skip it for a lighter dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine or penne work well too.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Replace butter with olive oil and skip the cheese.

What’s the best shrimp size?

Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach or cherry tomatoes are great additions.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and tastes amazing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Try it tonight and share your results!

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