Dinner

Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe

Name: Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 4 tbsp Butter (the rich base); 4 cloves Garlic (finely minced); 2 tbsp Lemon juice (fresh); 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional but recommended); Salt and pepper (to taste); 8 oz Spaghetti or linguine (cooked al dente); 2 qt Salted water (for boiling pasta); 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped); 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan (for topping)

ByMatteo Rossi March 21, 2026March 21, 2026

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Introduction

This easy garlic butter shrimp pasta is a delicious and quick meal that packs a punch of flavor. With tender shrimp, rich butter, and a hint of lemon, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s sure to wow your taste buds!

A close-up view of a white plate filled with spaghetti pasta at the bottom, showing a smooth and slightly shiny golden-yellow texture with strands intertwined. On top of the pasta layer, there is a generous amount of large, cooked shrimp arranged in a scattered pattern. The shrimp are a mix of light pink and white with a glossy texture and black pepper flakes along with finely chopped green herbs sprinkled evenly over them and the pasta. The overall look is warm and fresh, set against a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional but recommended)
8 oz spaghetti or linguine (cooked al dente)
2 qt salted water (for boiling pasta)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the cooking water.
Step 2: In a spacious skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until foamy and lightly sizzling.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through.
Step 5: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes, letting the mixture simmer for 1 minute to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet, then toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce until well coated.
Step 7: Remove from heat, then garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce before tossing with pasta.
Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein option.
If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.