Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Butter Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I absolutely love making Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce; it's a dish that never fails to impress. The buttery garlic sauce envelops each shrimp and pasta strand, creating a rich and flavorful experience. When we have friends over or just want a special family dinner, this recipe is a go-to. It’s quick, taking only 30 minutes, and the aroma fills the kitchen as it cooks, making everyone eager for a taste.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:46:35.297Z

Preparing this Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce has become a cherished tradition in our home. The secret lies in using high-quality shrimp and fresh garlic. I remember the first time I made it for my family, the verdict was unanimous; they loved it! We had never tasted shrimp that was so tender and infused with flavor.

What really elevates this dish is adding a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice right before serving. It adds a refreshing brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the butter. Trust me, this small trick makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich buttery flavor with a hint of garlic and lemon
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Elegant enough to impress guests on special occasions

Ingredient Spotlight: Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this dish, opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. I recommend raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined, as they will absorb the garlic butter sauce beautifully. Frozen shrimp can also work; just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet, which can prevent a good sear from developing. Look for shrimp that smell briny and clean for the best quality.

Cooking shrimp is a delicate task; they're perfect when just cooked through and opaque. Overcooking will leave them rubbery and tough. Monitor them closely and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink. If you see a golden edge form, that’s a great sign they’re nearly ready. A good rule of thumb is about 2-3 minutes per side depending on their size.

Perfect Pasta Techniques

For the linguine or spaghetti, the key to achieving the perfect texture is cooking it until it's al dente. This means it should have a slight bite to it, which stands up well against the creamy garlic butter sauce. Always make sure to use plenty of salted water when boiling the pasta; it should taste like the sea, as this enhances the pasta's flavor during the cooking process.

I recommend reserving at least half a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can be added to the sauce later to adjust the consistency. If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will not only loosen it up but also help the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta, enhancing the dish's overall richness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce can be served in various ways according to your preference. I adore adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top for extra creaminess and flavor. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a pop of color and freshness, consider adding a side salad with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to your table.

If you're looking to customize this dish, consider adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach during the sautéing process with the shrimp. Just be mindful of their cooking times; add delicate greens towards the end to avoid overcooking. For a lighter option, substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles, or use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing the dish's essence.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce:

Ingredients

8 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, juiced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking to streamline the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make your Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

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

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss well, adding the lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a sauce. Stir in the parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your dish while it's hot for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This shrimp pasta can be a great meal prep option. You can prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the pasta a few hours in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on low heat, adding a little pasta water to loosen it up. Cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture right before serving, as they are best enjoyed straight out of the skillet.

If you're planning to serve this dish for a gathering, you can also prepare a large batch of sauce and boil enough pasta at once. Just remember to slightly undercook the pasta if you intend to reheat it later, as it will continue to cook while it absorbs the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat, adding a little olive oil or butter, and a splash of broth to keep the pasta moist. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery and dry out the pasta. Stir occasionally until heated through, monitoring it closely.

Freezing this dish is not ideal due to the texture of the shrimp, but if necessary, store the sauce and pasta separately. The garlic butter sauce can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat. Freshly cooked shrimp should be added at that time to ensure they maintain their delightful texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your garlic butter sauce turns out too oily, you can balance it by adding a touch more lemon juice or a splash of white wine to brighten the flavors. Be careful not to cook the garlic too long; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the sauce. If that happens, it's best to start over with fresh garlic and butter to achieve the right flavor profile.

Another common issue is underseasoning; be sure to taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly! The right seasoning will enhance the flavors of the shrimp and pasta, making it truly irresistible. If you feel it needs a bit more depth, freshly cracked black pepper or a hint of grated lemon zest can do wonders.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for linguine?

Any pasta shape works well, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and combine it with the pasta and shrimp just before serving.