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Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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A fast, easy, and delicious garlic butter shrimp pasta ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp, medium or large size
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine (whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pat dry 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  5. Lower heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the drained pasta and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the mixture seems dry.
  6. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently with the pasta. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Plate the pasta and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Start cooking shrimp only after pasta is nearly done to finish both together. Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Pat shrimp dry before cooking to get a good sear and avoid steaming. Use moderate heat when sautéing garlic to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp pasta, quick shrimp pasta, easy shrimp recipe, 15 minute dinner, weeknight pasta, garlic shrimp, buttery shrimp pasta