Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Name: Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love whipping up this Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a delicious weeknight meal that never fails to impress! The garlic butter sauce is so rich and flavorful, and it wraps around the pasta perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish brings the taste of gourmet cooking into my home. It’s ideal for busy days when I crave something hearty yet effortless, and my family always gets excited when they see it on the dinner table.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:58:28.425Z

When I first tried making shrimp pasta, I was hesitant about how quick and easy it could be. After a few attempts, I discovered that the secret to great flavor lies in using quality shrimp and a rich garlic butter sauce that can be made in the same pan as the pasta. This method not only reduces cleanup time but ensures every bite is infused with the savory goodness of garlic and butter.

One tip I learned is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant before adding shrimp. This prevents the garlic from burning and ensures the pasta is perfectly coated in the buttery sauce. It's a dish I return to time and again, especially on busy nights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in 25 minutes
Rich, buttery flavor that elevates simple shrimp
One-pan dish means minimal cleanup
Perfect balance of garlic and spice enhances the pasta

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this dish, providing a rich flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp and pasta. The key is to not burn the garlic; cook it just until fragrant to achieve a golden hue without bitterness. Adding the red pepper flakes enhances the dish's complexity, providing gentle heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference, but I recommend starting with the suggested amount to maintain a balanced flavor profile.

For an even richer sauce, consider using a combination of unsalted and salted butter. The unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the dish, while a touch of salted butter adds that extra depth of flavor. It's crucial to add the lemon juice gradually; this brightens the dish, enhancing the shrimp's natural sweetness while keeping the sauce luscious.

Perfecting the Shrimp

When cooking shrimp, size matters! Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe as they offer a meaty texture that holds up well in the garlic butter sauce. If you can find wild-caught shrimp, they generally provide a more vibrant flavor compared to farmed varieties. Make sure the shrimp are fully peeled and deveined before cooking to allow the flavors of the sauce to penetrate evenly.

Timing is essential; shrimp cook very quickly—typically in about 3 to 5 minutes. Look for them to turn pink and opaque but be careful not to overcook, as they can become tough. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they're thawed properly; submerge them in cold water for about 10-15 minutes to speed up the thawing process.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is versatile, allowing for various ingredient swaps to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Swap out spaghetti or linguine for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. You can even add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition; simply toss them in with the shrimp until heated through.

Serving suggestions go beyond the classic approach. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, and reheating is straightforward—just warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Ingredients

Pasta & Shrimp

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce Ingredients

4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and remaining butter. Toss everything together over low heat until the sauce is creamy and combined. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a different twist. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese when serving for an extra creamy finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, allowing the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container extends its life in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Adding a tablespoon or two of water or broth encourages a saucy consistency, preventing it from drying out.

Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave using a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring to ensure even heating. Mind that reheating too long can result in the shrimp becoming rubbery, so keep an eye on it!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down based on your needs. If you're hosting a dinner party, double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a larger skillet so that everything cooks evenly. Maintain the same cooking times for the shrimp and pasta to ensure they come out perfect every time.

For smaller portions, simply halve the ingredients, but don't reduce the sauce ingredients too much, as the garlic butter sauce is what makes this dish shine. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, tasting as you go to ensure the final dish is just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

→ What if I don't have spaghetti?

Any pasta type works well with this sauce, including penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and then quickly cook the pasta and shrimp when ready to serve.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

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