Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – Don’t LOSE This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Juicy shrimp sautéed in buttery garlic sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs. It’s fast enough for busy nights but elegant enough for guests.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season & Cook the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook:
- 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque
Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium.
Add remaining butter and olive oil.
Add minced garlic and sauté 30–40 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add heavy cream (if using), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well.
4. Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta directly to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Add reserved pasta water little by little until the sauce becomes silky.
Return shrimp to the skillet and gently mix.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
5. Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve immediately while hot.
Helpful Tips
- Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked, for best texture
- Don’t overcook shrimp or they’ll turn rubbery
- Linguine or fettuccine holds the sauce best
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for variation
Serving Ideas
- Serve with garlic bread or crusty bread
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or special occasions