Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that combines juicy shrimp with rich garlic butter and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
I love how the garlic fills the kitchen with a yummy smell while it’s cooking. Plus, this dish is perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself on a cozy night in! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works best for this dish, as they hold the sauce nicely. If you’re gluten-free, try using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for a similar texture.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for their plumpness. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp is a great substitute; just make sure to thaw them beforehand.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the way to go so you can control the saltiness. You can swap some butter for olive oil to make it lighter or use a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic works too in a pinch. Just remember, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can replace one clove if you need!
White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer to skip wine, use chicken broth for a similar flavor or just increase the amount of lemon juice for a bit of acidity.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Perfect Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky! Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery, so keeping an eye on them is essential.
- Always thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or in cold water for an hour.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning to help them sear properly.
- Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and slightly golden, about 2 minutes per side.
- If unsure, remove them from heat just before they’re fully cooked; they’ll continue cooking from residual heat.
With these ingredients and tips in mind, you’re set to make a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta that will wow your dinner guests or be a cozy treat for yourself! Enjoy!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be prepared in about 20 minutes. It takes about 10 minutes to cook the pasta and another 10 minutes to sauté the shrimp and prepare the sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When it’s ready, drain the pasta and save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear better. Season both sides of the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika to give them flavor.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and a drizzle of olive oil. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes until they turn pink and slightly golden. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. When the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to let it brown!).
5. Deglaze the Pan:
If you’re using white wine or chicken broth, pour it in now. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure the pasta is well coated with the garlic butter sauce.
7. Mix in the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix gently, allowing them to warm back up while incorporating them into the pasta.
8. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley, and taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth is a great alternative that still adds depth to the sauce. You can also just increase the amount of lemon juice for a fresh and tangy flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter for a dairy-free butter or olive oil, and replace Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or simply omit it for a lighter version. Enjoying good flavor without dairy is totally possible!
