Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a quick and tasty meal you can make in just 20 minutes. It combines shrimp, butter, garlic, and pasta for a simple dish full of flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any skill level.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
There are many reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation. First, it’s fast. You only need around 20 minutes to get dinner on the table, which is great when time is tight. Second, it requires simple ingredients that you probably already have or can easily find.
The flavor is another big plus. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, mouthwatering sauce, while the shrimp add a light, satisfying protein. The little kick from red pepper flakes and the brightness from fresh parsley balance it all perfectly. Plus, you can customize it easily with the pasta type you like best, whether it’s fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti.
This dish also looks impressive without a lot of effort. The plump pink shrimp nestled among the pasta and green arugula make for a colorful and appetizing plate. It’s a great way to treat yourself or your guests to something both delicious and elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
To make this flavorful pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, for seasoning
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided into portions
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cups baby arugula or fresh spinach leaves
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Here’s how you prepare this delicious dish step-by-step:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s just tender. When done, drain it well and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, season your shrimp with salt and pepper. Set them aside briefly to let the seasoning absorb.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the melted butter. Stir frequently and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter. Toss in the cooked pasta, fresh arugula or spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the greens begin to wilt and the cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Make sure the shrimp are warmed through.
Your garlic butter shrimp pasta is ready to be plated. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Serving this dish is simple and satisfying. You can plate it directly from the skillet or transfer it to a large serving dish for a family-style meal. The warmth of the dish helps the butter sauce stay silky and smooth.
This pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, such as a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. A crusty loaf of bread or garlic bread on the side also makes a perfect companion to soak up any leftover sauce.
If you want to add an extra touch, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the pasta right before serving to brighten the flavors. Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if you like more cheese or spice.
This meal works well for casual dinners or more formal occasions. It’s easy to serve, and the fresh ingredients make it feel wholesome and indulgent at the same time.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
To get the best results every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh shrimp if possible, as they offer the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them fully before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They cook very quickly and become rubbery if left on heat too long. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Be gentle when tossing the pasta and shrimp with the sauce. You want everything well coated without breaking the shrimp apart.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit them.
- For the best garlic flavor, mince the garlic finely but avoid burning it, which can create bitterness. Cook it until fragrant only.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley at the end to add a burst of freshness and color.
- If you want a creamier sauce, consider stirring in a splash of cream or milk with the butter at the end.
Following these tips will help you master this recipe and make it your own.
How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep the flavors intact. Place the pasta and shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid drying out the shrimp or pasta.
Avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of the shrimp and sauce may change after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.
Before serving leftovers, you can add a little extra butter or a splash of broth to revive the sauce and keep it moist.
Variations to Try with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
You can customize this dish in several ways to suit your tastes or what you have on hand:
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken for a different protein option.
- Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Use kale or Swiss chard instead of arugula or spinach for a heartier green.
- Try different herbs like basil or thyme instead of parsley for a new flavor twist.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the sauce for a zesty, fresh finish.
- Stir in some cream or half-and-half to turn the dish into a creamy pasta.
Feel free to experiment and make this recipe uniquely yours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well as long as you thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What kind of pasta works best with this dish?
Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are all great choices because they hold the sauce nicely. You can pick your favorite or what you have available.
How spicy is this pasta?
The recipe uses crushed red pepper flakes for a mild heat. You can adjust the amount to your taste or skip it if you prefer no spice.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and shrimp separately ahead, then combine and reheat gently. For best taste and texture, serve fresh.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp pasta?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complements this pasta perfectly.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- to taste Kosher salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cups baby arugula or fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Set aside briefly.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter. Add cooked pasta, arugula or spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until greens wilt and cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Ensure shrimp are warmed through.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
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