This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a simple dish that brings together juicy shrimp and a buttery, garlic sauce. It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!
Making this dish makes me feel like a kitchen pro! I love tossing it all together and watching everyone enjoy a hearty plate. A sprinkle of parsley on top? Yes, please! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine works great, but you can switch to spaghetti or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Shrimp: Large shrimp is ideal for this dish, but you can use medium or even frozen shrimp. If you use frozen, just make sure they are thawed first. If seafood isn’t your thing, try using chicken breast instead!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness in the dish. For a lighter option, you can replace some of the butter with olive oil. It adds a nice flavor too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is amazing, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will do. I recommend using 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder if substituting.
Heavy cream: This gives the dish its creaminess, but if you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps them sear nicely.
- Use medium heat so they cook evenly without burning. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. It ensures they cook evenly.
- Remember that shrimp will continue to cook a bit after you take them off the heat, so don’t wait for them to be overcooked in the skillet!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off based on preference)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough for company!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set aside, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp and season them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so it reduces slightly.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-5 minutes so the sauce can thicken slightly.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until it melts and becomes smooth. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
7. Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce, ensuring they’re well coated.
8. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
9. Finishing Touch:
Add the chopped parsley for a fresh flavor and stir to combine everything.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges if you like. Enjoy this creamy, garlicky delight!
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, but it feels special enough for a weekend dinner. Enjoy the amazing flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just be sure to thaw them first. You can do this overnight in the fridge or submerge the sealed bag in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that lighter options may result in a slightly less creamy sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust according to your taste preference!
