The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. As the shrimp cook to a perfect pink, the anticipation builds for that first bite of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, a dish that brings together all the best flavors in one bowl. Each forkful promises a delightful blend of savory garlic and rich, creamy sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
- How long does it take to cook Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
- What is a good side dish for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
- Conclusion for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta :
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I whipped up this dish; it was during a dinner party gone awry, where I accidentally set off the smoke alarm while attempting to impress my friends. Despite my culinary misadventures, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta emerged as the star of the evening. It’s become my go-to recipe for impressing guests or simply treating myself after a long day. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavor profile combines fragrant garlic with succulent shrimp and creamy pasta
- Its beautiful presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with various veggies or proteins based on your preference
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti or Linguine: Choose your favorite pasta type; spaghetti works great for twirling while linguine holds sauce nicely.
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp are both fine; just ensure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor—minced finely so they infuse nicely into the butter.
- Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness while adding richness; never skimp on this essential ingredient!
- Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil adds depth and prevents butter from burning.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a fresh herbal note.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon enhances all flavors and balances richness—don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot over high heat. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter along with olive oil until bubbling gently. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden but not burnt; about 1 minute is usually perfect.
Add Shrimp: Toss in your shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side depending on size—turning them carefully to avoid breaking.
Combine Everything: Once cooked, reduce heat to low before adding your drained pasta into the skillet with shrimp. Stir well to coat everything in that delicious garlic butter sauce.
Finish with Flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your pasta and toss in chopped parsley for color and freshness. If it’s looking too dry, add some reserved pasta water little by little until you reach desired creaminess.
Serve Up! Plate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with an extra sprinkle of parsley on top for presentation. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce!
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful dish, get ready to wow family and friends (or just treat yourself). They won’t believe how something so simple can taste so divine! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that combines rich flavors with a quick cooking time
- The dish is visually stunning and offers plenty of room for personal touches
- Perfect for date night or a cozy family dinner, it never disappoints
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, start by searing the shrimp in garlic butter for maximum flavor. Meanwhile, cook the pasta until al dente. Combine everything with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon to elevate the dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta by swapping shrimp for chicken or adding veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Different spices, such as red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning, can also bring unique flavors to this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, use large shrimp for better texture and flavor
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm to hold its shape
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving adds color and freshness
Sometimes I whip up this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta when friends drop by unexpectedly; their smiles say it all! It’s simple yet impressive—definitely a recipe that leaves a lasting impression.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, you will need fresh shrimp, spaghetti or linguine pasta, garlic, unsalted butter, olive oil, and fresh parsley. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavor. You might also consider using red pepper flakes for some heat. This dish is straightforward with minimal ingredients, ensuring that the rich flavors of garlic and butter shine through.
How long does it take to cook Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Cooking Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. You will spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta. The shrimp only require about 5 to 7 minutes of cooking time. This quick preparation makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can do this by placing them in cold water for about 15 to 20 minutes or letting them sit in the refrigerator overnight. Using frozen shrimp can be convenient and economical while still delivering great flavor when cooked with garlic and butter.
What is a good side dish for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
A fresh green salad pairs wonderfully with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. You can make a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, garlic bread complements this dish beautifully by enhancing the overall garlic flavor. Both options provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp pasta.
Conclusion for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta :
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich garlic butter sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare a meal that impresses both family and friends. With minimal ingredients like shrimp, garlic, and butter, this recipe is both easy and flavorful. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional herbs or spices to make it your own! Enjoy this decadent yet simple recipe any night of the week.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that brings together tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and creamy pasta in a rich butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties, this recipe delivers an unforgettable flavor experience with minimal effort. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of this comforting meal that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb fresh or thawed shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- 2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- 3. Add Shrimp: Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until pink and opaque (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- 4. Combine Everything: Reduce heat to low, add drained pasta to the skillet with shrimp, and toss to combine.
- 5. Finish with Flavor: Squeeze lemon juice over the pasta and add parsley. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- 6. Serve: Plate the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta topped with extra parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 320g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
