Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti or linguine; Salt, for pasta water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich flavors of shrimp tossed in a creamy garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is a delightful twist that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:52:11.863Z

This Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that is quick to prepare yet packed with flavor. Inspired by the coastal cuisine, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, making it an instant favorite for seafood lovers.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that enhances the shrimp
Creamy sauce that perfectly clings to the pasta
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to preparing dinner on a busy weeknight, comfort food often tops the list. This Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe is not only quick to make, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of succulent shrimp and a creamy garlic butter sauce makes this dish a standout. It’s an excellent way to elevate your typical pasta dinner, transforming it into a gourmet experience right at home. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions.

Flavor Profile That Delights

The rich garlic flavor in this recipe is a highlight, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Garlic not only adds depth but also brings a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking, enticing everyone to gather around the dinner table. If you're a fan of a little heat, the optional red pepper flakes provide just the right amount of kick without overshadowing the other flavors.

The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, creating a beautiful harmony between the two. This is not just a meal; it's an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you feeling satisfied. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making each bite visually appealing as well as delicious.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, ensure your shrimp are fresh and properly deveined. This not only enhances the flavor but also improves the overall texture of the dish. If you're using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

When cooking pasta, always remember to salt your water generously. This step is crucial as it is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Additionally, reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s a valuable tool for adjusting the sauce's consistency when you combine everything in the skillet.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt, for pasta water

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Combine the ingredients before cooking for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the shrimp and garlic butter. If the mixture seems dry, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious garlic butter shrimp pasta!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to enjoying this dish later. Allow the pasta and shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and the shrimp from losing their texture.

Leftover garlic butter shrimp pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of water or extra butter to revive the creamy sauce, ensuring it remains luscious and flavorful.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement this Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will balance the richness of the pasta, making for a well-rounded meal.

For wine lovers, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with shrimp dishes. These wines enhance the seafood flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce, elevating your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine are preferred, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead and cook the pasta just before serving.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.