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 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; Salt for boiling water; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a quick, yet luxurious meal. The combination of tender shrimp tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with al dente pasta creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whenever I make it, I’m transported to a cozy Italian bistro, savoring every bite. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make it a staple in our home, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:41:36.155Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was astonished by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go—once the shrimp hits the pan, it cooks rapidly! I also learned that using quality butter elevates this simple dish into something extraordinary.

One memorable evening, I served this pasta to a group of friends during a casual dinner party. They couldn’t stop raving about the garlic-infused butter sauce, which beautifully coats every strand of pasta and each succulent shrimp. It’s these moments that make cooking so rewarding!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory garlic and butter elevate the dish to gourmet status
Perfectly cooked shrimp add a delightful seafood twist
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions

Perfect Pasta Preparation

Cooking pasta correctly is essential for the success of this dish. Aim for al dente — the perfect texture where the pasta is firm to the bite. Start with a large pot of generously salted water, bringing it to a rolling boil before adding the fettuccine or spaghetti. Cooking times can vary; for fettuccine, check the package for guidance, typically around 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, and taste test a minute before the suggested cook time ends to ensure it’s cooked just right.

After draining the pasta, do not rinse it; this helps the sauce cling better. Reserve a cup of pasta water, as it can be your secret weapon later. The starchy water can help adjust the sauce's consistency, ensuring that every strand of pasta is beautifully coated in that garlic butter goodness.

Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is what elevates this recipe. Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness. Melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly, and then add minced garlic. Watch for the garlic to turn golden, as this develops a deep flavor; don't let it brown too much, or it can become bitter. If you enjoy some heat, red pepper flakes add a wonderful kick. Stir them in after the garlic becomes fragrant, which takes just about a minute.

The shrimp adds not only flavor but also a delightful texture. Use fresh shrimp if possible, as it enhances the dish considerably. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slightly sweet smell. Once they’re added to the pan, they should sizzle as they hit the hot butter. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!

Serving and Variations

When plating the dish, presenting it well can elevate the dining experience. Consider garnishing with extra chopped parsley or lemon wedges for freshness. A light sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy element that complements the garlic butter beautifully. Serve it with crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce—so good for a cozy meal.

This recipe is versatile, too. For a creamier version, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream after cooking the shrimp. Alternatively, toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients. If you prefer a different protein, scallops or even chicken can be an excellent substitute in this dish, just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
Salt for boiling water

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking for best results.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. If using, add red pepper flakes.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet; season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and parsley.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with additional parsley or lemon wedges, if desired. Enjoy!

This dish is best served immediately while the pasta is hot and the shrimp is tender.

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the butter sauce before tossing in the shrimp.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, the garlic butter sauce can be made a few hours ahead. Just heat it gently, adding the shrimp just before serving to ensure they remain succulent and fresh. Cook the pasta right before mealtime, as freshly cooked pasta will retain the best texture and not become gummy or mushy sitting in the sauce too long.

For leftovers, store pasta and shrimp separately in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to bring everything back together. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp and create an unappetizing texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fettuccine or spaghetti, any long pasta will work; linguine and bucatini are excellent alternatives. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta blends that replicate traditional pasta's texture and flavor. Be sure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of pasta you choose.

If you're avoiding shrimp, consider using cooked chicken or even canned tuna for a quick protein twist. These substitutions will alter the flavor profile slightly but can still complement the garlic butter sauce nicely, creating a new yet equally delightful dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your garlic butter sauce is too greasy, it might be due to using too much butter or cooking it at too high a heat. To fix this, whisk in a small amount of pasta water to help emulsify the sauce. This not only thins it out but also helps blend the flavors better.

Additionally, if your shrimp come out tough, it's likely they were overcooked. Keeping them at medium heat and watching closely during the cooking process is crucial. Timing is everything, especially when cooking shrimp; a touch of patience will yield perfectly tender pieces every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the skillet.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or spaghetti works well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños while cooking the garlic.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and quickly toss with the pasta when ready to serve.