Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful and simple dish that combines tender shrimp, savory garlic, and creamy butter, all tossed together with pasta. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a quick dinner party.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta because it is quick to prepare and full of flavor. This dish brings together the richness of butter and garlic with the freshness of shrimp, creating a meal that satisfies your cravings. Plus, you can make it in about 30 minutes, which is ideal for busy schedules.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried pasta
- 1 pound raw shrimp
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 0.5 cup pasta cooking water
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Directions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until it is al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the raw shrimp to the skillet with the garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp until they become opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in some reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.
- Finish the dish by stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta warm, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. A side salad and garlic bread make great accompaniments for a complete meal.
How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta is best eaten within 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen shrimp can also work, just be sure to thaw them first.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. Simply sauté them with the garlic and shrimp to add color and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne.
What if I don’t have fresh shrimp?
Frozen shrimp are a convenient alternative and can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine and heat everything together when you are ready to serve.
