Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; Salt for boiling water; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:04:11.256Z

This garlic butter shrimp pasta is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. With fresh garlic, succulent shrimp, and a buttery sauce, it's the perfect comfort food for any night of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory garlic flavor that enhances every bite
Juicy shrimp that adds a delightful texture
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When life gets busy, finding the time to cook a delicious meal can feel overwhelming. That's where this Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta shines. It's quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal option for hectic weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you'll be able to serve a gourmet dish that will impress your family or guests.

The combination of shrimp and pasta creates a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes. The garlic butter sauce not only adds a rich flavor but also helps to create a luscious coating that clings to every strand of pasta. This ensures that each bite is bursting with taste, making it a dish that everyone will want to savor.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this shrimp pasta recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the shrimp for your favorite seafood, like scallops or even chicken, depending on what you have on hand. You can also add vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value and add a pop of color to the dish.

Moreover, adjusting the level of heat in the dish is simple. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes, or omit them altogether. For those who crave more spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your dining experience even further, consider pairing this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce beautifully. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon is a refreshing choice.

For a complete meal, serve a simple green salad on the side. A light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta, balancing the flavors perfectly. With a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce, your dinner is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt for boiling water

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Combine all fresh ingredients to elevate your dish.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Stir in lemon juice and parsley.

Serve

Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

This dish is best served immediately for maximum flavor.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, be careful not to overcook them. They should turn pink and opaque in just 3-4 minutes. If you're unsure, remove one from the skillet to check for doneness before continuing to cook the rest.

Using fresh garlic is key to enhancing the flavor of your sauce. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as it can lose its potent aroma and taste. Freshly minced garlic will ensure that the dish has that signature rich and savory flavor that makes it so comforting.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to prevent the pasta from drying out.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can also be frozen. To freeze, store the pasta and shrimp in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as mentioned above for a quick and easy meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

→ What other types of pasta can I use?

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and combine it with freshly cooked pasta later.