There's nothing quite like the rich aroma of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta filling your kitchen after a long day. The combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety garlic-butter sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to prepare.
This recipe became a staple in our home after I whipped it up on a whim one busy evening. It’s now one of my favorite go-to meals, perfect for family dinners or even entertaining guests. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Get ready to fall in love with this comforting and elegant dish. Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is proof that a restaurant-quality meal can be created right in your own kitchen.
First off, it’s delightfully quick and simple. From start to finish, this dish takes only about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when time is limited.
The flavors are incredibly satisfying. The rich, garlicky butter sauce complements the sweetness of the shrimp, while the pasta absorbs every delicious drop, creating a harmonious bite every time.
It’s also a wonderfully versatile recipe. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, you can easily adjust the portion size. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side salad or a loaf of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Finally, this dish uses wholesome, simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or freezer. With just a few staples, you can create a meal that feels special without breaking the bank. Ready to start? Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to bring out the best in the dish.
Shrimp are the star here, so choose medium to large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp work just as well—just make sure to thaw them fully before cooking.
Pasta is the foundation, and long noodles like spaghetti or linguine work best. They soak up the luscious sauce and twirl beautifully with the shrimp. Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free options if you prefer.
Butter and olive oil form the base of the sauce. The butter adds richness, while the olive oil prevents it from feeling too heavy. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
Garlic is the hero of this recipe. Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust, aromatic flavor that ties everything together. Mince it finely to ensure it melts into the sauce.
Lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note that balances the richness of the butter. A fresh lemon is best for squeezing just before serving.
For a touch of heat, red pepper flakes are optional but highly recommended. They enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Finally, a sprinkle of parsley at the end adds freshness and a pop of color.
No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta. With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to create a meal to remember.
How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is as simple as it is delicious. Here’s how to bring it all together in just a few steps.
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to help create the perfect sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and half the butter, allowing it to melt. Once the butter is bubbling, toss in the minced garlic. Stir gently for about 30 seconds, letting the garlic release its aroma without browning.
Next, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to avoid overcooking.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir well to combine, then add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Gradually pour in some of the reserved pasta water, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are fully coated in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove from heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
From start to finish, this recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes. The result is a dish so satisfying, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely with a dish this tasty), you can store them easily. Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Freezing is not recommended, as the butter-based sauce may separate when thawed. However, if you must freeze it, store the shrimp and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers for up to a month.
Enjoy your leftovers as-is or jazz them up with a handful of freshly grated Parmesan or a side of steamed vegetables for variety.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or use what’s on hand.
For a heartier meal, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli. Their earthy or fresh flavors pair beautifully with the garlicky sauce.
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, swap it out for bite-sized pieces of chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Simply cook them the same way you would the shrimp.
To lighten things up, use less butter and substitute half of it with vegetable broth. The dish will still be deliciously flavorful but slightly less rich.
For a burst of umami, try adding a handful of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. It melts into the sauce, adding depth and creaminess.
Feel free to play with herbs as well—basil, thyme, or oregano can lend new dimensions to the dish. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
PrintGarlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Indulge in this flavorful garlic butter shrimp pasta recipe made with tender shrimp, creamy butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy shrimp pasta dish is ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add red pepper flakes (if using) and chicken broth, then stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water gradually if needed.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix well. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if preferred.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
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