Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; Salt, for boiling water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese; Lemon wedges

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of this Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. It's a delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:25:10.894Z

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together succulent shrimp, garlic, and creamy butter sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp coated in rich garlic butter
Creamy sauce that perfectly clings to pasta
Quick and easy to make for any weeknight dinner

      

A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When it comes to weeknight dinners, time is often a constraint. This Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe is designed with this in mind. With a prep and cook time of around 30 minutes, it allows you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy sauce makes it a satisfying choice that everyone will love.

This dish not only saves you time but also offers the flexibility to customize based on your preferences. You can easily swap out linguine for spaghetti or even a gluten-free pasta if needed. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy this comforting meal regardless of dietary restrictions.

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this pasta dish is undoubtedly the shrimp, which cooks quickly and absorbs all the rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce. Using large shrimp not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. Pair this with fresh garlic, which adds a fragrant aroma and health benefits, making the meal not only delicious but also nourishing.

Moreover, the addition of red pepper flakes offers a subtle kick without overpowering the dish. This balance of flavors is what makes the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta so comforting and delightful. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added layer of freshness!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete dining experience, consider serving this pasta with a light side salad or some crusty bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon complements the richness of the shrimp pasta beautifully. This balance of flavors ensures that your meal is not only satisfying but also refreshing.

Additionally, pairing your dish with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can elevate the dining experience even further. The crisp acidity of the wine contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce, making for a delightful combination.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz linguine or spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water

For the Shrimp

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

For Serving

Grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon wedges

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the garlic butter sauce. Stir in fresh parsley.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, it's essential to avoid overcooking. Shrimp cooks quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, and as soon as they turn pink and opaque, they are done. This ensures a tender texture that enhances your pasta dish.

Another tip is to use shrimp that are roughly the same size for even cooking. If you're using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results. You can do this by placing them in cold water for about 15 minutes or leaving them in the refrigerator overnight.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost and more vibrant color. Simply sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the shrimp for a delicious twist.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. Basil or thyme can provide a different flavor profile, while a splash of white wine in the sauce can enhance the dish's richness. The key is to adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences while keeping its comforting nature intact.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of water or a little extra butter to the pan to help restore the creamy sauce. Heat it gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal even on your busy days!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What other pasta types can I use?

You can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and heat them up when ready to serve.