Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; Salt for boiling water; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Family Meals

When I crave something rich yet simple, I turn to garlic butter shrimp pasta. The combination of succulent shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce over perfectly cooked pasta is downright irresistible. It’s my go-to dish for weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its quick preparation without compromising flavor. Each bite delivers a burst of deliciousness that keeps me coming back for more. Join me in discovering how to create this satisfying dish that never fails to impress.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:09:36.684Z

Every time I whip up garlic butter shrimp pasta, I’m reminded of my love for seafood and how easy it is to create something impressive. I always choose fresh shrimp, tossing them in garlic-infused butter until they turn a lovely shade of pink. This method not only enhances the flavors but ensures the shrimp stay tender and juicy, not rubbery.

I also like to finish my pasta with a generous sprinkle of parsley and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the dish. It’s a simple touch that elevates the meal, and if I have some on hand, I add red pepper flakes for a delightful kick. I promise, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold garlic flavor that complements tender shrimp
Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

Perfecting Your Pasta

The foundation of any great pasta dish is the pasta itself. To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to cook the spaghetti to al dente, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes. You want it to be tender but still firm to the bite. This not only enhances the overall mouthfeel but allows the pasta to hold up against the flavorful sauce without becoming mushy. Remember to reserve that half-cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be a game-changer for adjusting the sauce's consistency later on.

After cooking the pasta, it’s crucial not to rinse it. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere, which is especially important in a garlic butter sauce. Instead, let the pasta sit for a minute in its cooking pot while you prepare the shrimp and sauce, allowing it to stay warm and ready to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Crafting the Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is where the magic happens! Start with medium heat to ensure the garlic does not burn; it should be fragrant but not darkened. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the minced garlic, cooking it for one minute until it becomes fragrant and glossy. Take care, as garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long. If you want to elevate the sauce’s flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after browning the garlic before introducing the chicken broth.

For a creamier finish, be sure to stir the heavy cream into the garlic mixture gently, allowing it to heat through without boiling. A simmer just below boiling point will give it the perfect texture. This thicker sauce will cling beautifully to the pasta, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. Don’t forget to balance the flavors with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice, which brightens the dish masterfully!

Serving and Storing

When it comes to serving garlic butter shrimp pasta, presentation can elevate the dish even further. I recommend garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for both color and a hint of freshness, and serving with extra lemon wedges on the side. This adds a delightful pop of acidity that complements the richness beautifully. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavors, offering a mild heat that’s especially appetizing.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet on low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. A little splash of chicken broth can help rehydrate the sauce and revive those flavors. For meal prep, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead, then simply add them to the freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve for quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until pink and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can also add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream. Make sure to let it cook down before adding the cream to deepen the flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize this recipe, shrimp is versatile and can be replaced with other proteins, such as chicken or scallops. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken will take longer to cook through, about 5-7 minutes per side, while scallops cook faster, needing only about 2-3 minutes per side. Additionally, for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with non-fat Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess and a slight tang without the extra calories.

For a vegetarian option, you could use sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini in place of shrimp. The flavor profile will change, but you can still achieve a similar garlic butter taste. Just be mindful of cooking times, as mushrooms may take longer to brown due to their moisture content, requiring about 5-7 minutes of sautéing.

Variations to Try

For a twist on traditional flavors, consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Adding them during the last minute of cooking ensures they maintain their color and nutrients. Spinach wilts beautifully, while tomatoes add a juicy sweetness that contrasts well with the garlic's richness. You can also throw in a handful of arugula just before serving for a peppery bite.

If you're feeling adventurous, spice up your pasta with a hint of Asian influence. Swap out the parsley for fresh basil or cilantro and add a teaspoon of soy sauce or sesame oil once you combine everything. This variation adds a delightful umami flavor, making your garlic butter shrimp pasta a unique global dish that still retains its comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking for even cooking.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for pasta?

You can use gluten-free spaghetti or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers make great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.