Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

by

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta combines tender shrimp, perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles, and a rich garlic butter sauce that’s full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. The mix of garlic, butter, and shrimp brings a delightful richness that pairs perfectly with the pasta.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb spaghetti noodles
  • 6-8 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Olive oil (3 drizzles)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or basil), for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of water with a pinch of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, wash and prepare the shrimp. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and begin to curl. Once the shrimp are cooked through, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burned.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

Once the garlic is fragrant, drizzle in some olive oil (about 3 drizzles), and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, fresh ground pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Stir everything together to combine the flavors and let it simmer for another minute.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic butter mixture. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, starting with 1/4 cup, and adjust as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency. You want the pasta to be coated, but not swimming in liquid.

Step 5: Final Toss and Garnish

Continue tossing the pasta and shrimp in the skillet for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring that everything is well mixed and heated through. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if necessary. For a finishing touch, garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added flavor and color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
  • Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce adds depth and richness, while the shrimp gives the dish a satisfying, protein-packed twist.
  • Customizable: You can add extra veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini, or even use a different pasta shape to suit your preferences.
  • Perfect for Special Occasions or Casual Meals: Whether you’re serving it for a dinner party or a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store in the fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat carefully: When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a little more butter or olive oil to prevent the dish from drying out. You can also add a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the sauce.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe is simple, yet packed with flavor. It’s the perfect combination of savory garlic butter, succulent shrimp, and tender pasta—definitely a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

 

Leave a Comment