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–+ servings
Ella Cooks

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s elegant, easy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, all brought together with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories:
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 teaspoon salt for pasta water
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled & deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  3. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over low heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn the garlic!).
  3. Pour in white wine (or broth), scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
Combine Everything
  1. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
  2. Stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce clings to the pasta.
  3. Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing gently to combine.
  4. Remove from heat and mix in fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Serve & Enjoy!
  1. Plate the pasta and shrimp, drizzling any extra sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with more Parmesan, parsley, and lemon wedges.

Notes

Customization & Variations
✔ Make It Creamy: Add ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
✔ Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
✔ Add Veggies: Sauté spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
✔ Extra Protein: Toss in grilled chicken along with shrimp.
✔ Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
Storage & Reheating Tips
🔹 To Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔹 To Reheat:
Warm gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth.
Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery.

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