Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is one of those dishes that makes you feel instantly at home. Picture this: a cozy evening with the aroma of buttery garlic wafting through your kitchen. As you pull together a simple yet sophisticated meal, you can’t help but feel excited about what’s to come. This dish is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. Perfectly cooked shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with al dente fettuccine—what’s not to love?

Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or just treating yourself after a long day, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic choice. It’s quick to put together and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Let’s explore this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion of succulent shrimp enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, paired with perfectly cooked fettuccine. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also embodies a whirlwind of flavors that tantalize your taste buds. The marriage of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. It’s an ideal choice for busy cooks who appreciate gourmet flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant lemon zest and juice elevate the dish, providing freshness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements. Besides, this dish is adaptable, allowing you to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s no wonder that Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta has become a treasured favorite among home cooks across the USA.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• 12 oz Fettuccine
• 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp Butter
• Juice from ¼ Lemon
• Zest from ¼ Lemon
• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt, to taste
• Black Pepper, to taste
• Fresh Parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Cook the Fettuccine Pasta

First, grab a large pot and bring salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the fettuccine and cook it until al dente, following the package instructions. After it’s cooked to perfection, drain it well and set it aside. Keeping it warm helps the final dish maintain its nice texture.

Sauté the Garlic

Now let’s focus on that incredible garlic flavor! In a skillet over medium heat, add the cooking oil. When it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 2 minutes. You want it to get fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. That would ruin the whole dish!

Cook the Shrimp

Next up, melt the butter in the same skillet where you cooked the garlic. It should be bubbling just a bit. Add in the shrimp and stir occasionally. Cook until the shrimp are opaque and have that lovely pink hue, which should take about 4 to 6 minutes. They should be tender, so keep an eye on them!

Add the Flavorings

Here comes the magic moment—stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined. The cheese should start melting, creating that luxurious sauce we’re aiming for. Remember, tasting as you go is key!

Combine with Fettuccine

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Carefully transfer the cooked fettuccine into the skillet. Gently stir to coat the pasta evenly with that gorgeous garlic butter sauce. Each strand should be luscious and flavorful.

Garnish and Serve

Finally, plate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. If you’re feeling fancy, you can garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot and enjoy this delicious dish that’s sure to impress.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with a refreshing side salad or some warm garlic bread. And if you enjoy a glass of wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will enhance the flavors of the dish wonderfully.

Tips for Success

• For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp.
• It’s crucial not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender.
• Adjust the amount of garlic based on your taste—add more if you’re a garlic lover, or cut back for a milder flavor.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the fettuccine for linguine or spaghetti if that’s what you have. Adding ingredients like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus can boost the nutrition and add a splash of color. For those who love a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes when you’re sautéing the garlic.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve it again, reheat it gently on the stove. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.

Pairing Ideas

To complete your meal experience, consider pairing this delicious pasta with a crisp Caesar salad and perhaps a light dessert, like sorbet or panna cotta. The freshness of these sides complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can! Just ensure you thaw them completely before cooking.

Q2: What type of pasta works best?
A2: Fettuccine is ideal for this dish, but you can happily use any long pasta you prefer, like linguine or spaghetti.

Q3: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A3: Simply substitute the butter with olive oil and omit the Parmesan, or go for a plant-based cheese alternative.

Q4: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A4: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before mixing in the cooked pasta.

Q5: What other seasonings can I add?
A5: Consider adding Italian herbs, such as basil or oregano, for an extra touch of flavor.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a perfect weeknight dish that combines simplicity and elegance. With its rich flavors and quick preparation time, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this delightful pasta dish that captures the essence of comfort and indulgence, elevating any dining experience, whether a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.

More Easy Lunch & Dinner Recipes:

• Thai Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
• Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
• Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
• One Pan Turkey and Rice Skillet

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta offers a comforting blend of flavors, featuring buttery shrimp and al dente fettuccine for a delightful meal any night.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz Fettuccine
• 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp Butter
• Juice from ¼ Lemon
• Zest from ¼ Lemon
• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt, to taste
• Black Pepper, to taste
• Fresh Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

• Bring salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine until al dente, then drain.
• In a skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 2 minutes.
• Melt butter in the skillet, add shrimp, and cook until opaque, about 4 to 6 minutes.
• Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper until combined.
• Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet, gently mixing to coat with the sauce.
• Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Using fresh shrimp enhances flavor and texture.
Do not overcook shrimp to maintain tenderness.
Adjust garlic amount to personal taste preference.

• Author: Rachael
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 150mg