Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; Salt, for pasta water; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this comforting garlic butter shrimp pasta recipe that brings together succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, buttery sauce.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:28:11.753Z

This garlic butter shrimp pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh shrimp creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Serve it with a sprinkle of parsley and a side of garlic bread for an unforgettable meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp coated in rich garlic butter sauce
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Perfectly paired with al dente pasta for a satisfying meal

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're pressed for time but still want to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, this garlic butter shrimp pasta recipe is the answer. It combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked shrimp and pasta. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet-style dinner on the table, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

One of the great benefits of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an indulgent dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The minimal prep time and cooking time mean you can whip this up even on the busiest of evenings, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with little fuss.

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the shrimp, which adds a seafood flair that pairs beautifully with the buttery garlic sauce. When selecting shrimp, look for fresh or sustainably sourced options if possible. The shrimp should be pink and firm, ensuring the best flavor and texture when cooked.

Garlic is another essential component in this recipe, elevating the dish with its aromatic qualities. Freshly minced garlic brings a depth of flavor that pre-minced options simply can't match. Additionally, the option to add red pepper flakes allows you to customize the heat level to your preference, making this dish adaptable to different tastes.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this comforting dish, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The crispy bread can help soak up any leftover sauce, while a salad adds brightness and freshness to the meal. You could also pair it with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the shrimp perfectly.

For those looking to add a bit more nutrition, consider tossing in some vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also boosts its health benefits, making it a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the palate and the body.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
Salt, for pasta water

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta looks dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley before serving.

Serve immediately with a sprinkle of extra parsley on top!

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve the perfect al dente pasta, make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package closely. Every brand can vary slightly in cooking times, so taste-testing a strand a minute or two before the suggested time is a good practice. This ensures the pasta retains a slight bite, which is essential for a great texture in your dish.

Don't forget to generously salt the water before adding the pasta. This is your chance to season the pasta itself, enhancing its flavor as it cooks. A well-salted pot of water is key to elevating the overall taste of your pasta dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the garlic butter shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce's creaminess.

It's important to note that shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked during reheating, so keep the heat gentle and stir often. With the right care, your leftovers can taste just as delightful as the original meal, allowing you to savor the comforting flavors of this dish once more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is ideal, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients in advance to save time.