Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt, for boiling water
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
5 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (plus zest, optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Grated Parmesan cheese
Extra parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Stir in the lemon juice and zest (if using), scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce as needed.
Step 4: Combine
Add the shrimp back into the skillet and toss to combine with the pasta.
Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Plate the pasta and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Enjoy your luscious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: zest and juice the lemon, mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and pat the shrimp dry. This “mise en place” is crucial for smooth execution. Use a large skillet or pan with high sides to accommodate the pasta later. When cooking the shrimp, ensure the pan is hot enough so they sizzle upon contact, creating a light sear without steaming. After removing the shrimp, deglaze the pan with lemon juice, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful fond. When adding pasta water to the sauce, start with 1/4 cup and increase as needed; the starch will emulsify with the butter and oil, creating a glossy, clingy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pasta pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, serve with crusty garlic bread or focaccia to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic and lemon notes perfectly. For a lighter option, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
How-to Summary
To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: 1) Boil pasta, reserving starchy water. 2) Sauté garlic in butter and oil, then cook shrimp until pink. 3) Remove shrimp, add lemon juice and remaining butter to the pan to create a sauce. 4) Toss drained pasta in the sauce, loosening with reserved pasta water. 5) Return shrimp to pan, add parsley, and toss everything together. 6) Garnish with Parmesan and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, fully thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess water steaming them.
How can I make this dish less rich? Substitute half the butter with additional olive oil and use less Parmesan as garnish.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley? Fresh basil or chives make excellent substitutes, but avoid dried parsley as it lacks flavor.
Can I add vegetables? Absolutely. Sauté cherry tomatoes or spinach with the garlic, or add steamed broccoli florets when combining.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. They cook quickly and continue to cook slightly off the heat.
- Skipping the step of reserving pasta water. This starchy liquid is essential for creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Adding cheese directly to the hot skillet while tossing, which can cause it to clump. Instead, sprinkle it over individual plates.
- Crowding the pan when cooking the shrimp. Cook in a single layer or in batches to ensure proper searing.
- Using pre-minced jarred garlic, which often has a harsh, bitter flavor compared to fresh.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a testament to how a few quality ingredients, combined with simple technique, can create a restaurant-worthy meal at home. The key lies in the balance of rich butter, pungent garlic, bright lemon, and perfectly cooked seafood, all brought together by the magic of starchy pasta water. Mastering this recipe provides a foundational skill for countless other pasta dishes. It’s a quick, impressive, and endlessly satisfying dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.