Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity, elegance, and full-on flavor, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a total winner. Imagine juicy shrimp enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, clinging perfectly to tender linguine noodles—that perfect harmony of garlic, butter, and a touch of Parmesan is comfort food elevated to something truly special. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to impress guests, making it one of my all-time favorite go-to recipes whenever I want something that feels indulgently delicious without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are surprisingly simple yet each plays a crucial role in creating the rich and satisfying character of the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Freshness and quality here make all the difference, especially when it comes to the shrimp and garlic.
- 12 oz linguine pasta: The long, flat noodles hold the sauce beautifully, giving each bite a silky texture.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined: Opt for fresh or thawed shrimp for juicy, tender seafood bites.
- 4 Tbsp butter: This is where the sauce gets that dreamy, velvety richness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic is essential—it delivers the bold punch that defines the dish.
- ¼ cup white wine or chicken broth: Adds depth and a subtle acidity that brightens the buttery sauce.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese: Grated finely for that umami boost and a slightly nutty finish.
- 2 Tbsp parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a light, herbal contrast.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente—meaning it still has a tiny bite rather than being mushy. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is magic for loosening sauces and keeping everything creamy.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp in Garlic Butter
In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s fragrant and foamy. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until it’s golden and aromatic—be careful not to burn it, or it will get bitter. Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn a lovely pink color and curl slightly, which only takes a few minutes. Then remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 3: Build the Sauce and Combine
With the pan still hot, pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up all those browned bits stuck to the pan—they’re full of flavor! Let this simmer briefly until slightly reduced, then add the cooked linguine and shrimp back into the pan. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and splash in some reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that perfectly coats the noodles and seafood. Toss everything gently but thoroughly.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Serve
Just before serving, stir in chopped fresh parsley to brighten the flavors with its fresh, herby notes. This step adds a lovely visual contrast as well, making your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta look as fantastic as it tastes.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few lemon wedges on the side can elevate the dish even more. The lemon adds a fresh zing that cuts through the richness beautifully. You can also add some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat—it wakes up all the flavors in the best way.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette always pairs well to balance the richness of the pasta. Roasted asparagus or garlic bread are comforting, crowd-pleasing side options that round out the meal perfectly without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil on top for a glossy finish. For a fun twist, garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to impress guests at your next dinner party. Presentation can make a simple dish feel extra special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The shrimp and pasta soak up the flavors even more overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
Freezing shrimp pasta isn’t ideal because shrimp can become rubbery after thawing, and the pasta texture may change. If you must, freeze the shrimp separately, and cook fresh pasta when ready to reheat for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and gently warm everything over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. This keeps the shrimp tender and the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully because of its texture, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne are great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?
Not at all. The white wine adds a subtle acidity and depth, but chicken broth is a fantastic substitute if you prefer to avoid alcohol or want a milder flavor.
How do I know when shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp cook very quickly. When they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape, they’re done. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep a close eye.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to keep it dairy-free while still flavorful.
What can I add for a bit more spice?
Try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic or a dash of hot sauce tossed in at the end. Both give a nice kick without overwhelming the garlic butter base.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is one of those magical recipes that checks all the boxes: easy, elegant, and endlessly satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation. I can’t wait for you to enjoy the buttery garlic goodness wrapped around those tender shrimp and al dente linguine as much as I do. Trust me, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
