Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. With juicy shrimp and creamy garlic sauce, it’s packed with flavor and comfort!
I love how this meal comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you want something fancy but easy! 🍝🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti and linguine both work well, but feel free to swap with any pasta you love, like fettuccine or penne. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for a healthier option!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish because they hold up well in cooking. If shrimp isn’t available, you can use scallops or even chicken for a similar flavor and texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter work pretty well too!
Garlic: Four cloves add a lovely flavor, but if you’re a real garlic lover, you can always add more! Garlic powder can be a quick substitute in a pinch, though fresh is best.
Red Pepper Flakes: They add heat, but you can skip them if you’re looking for a milder dish. Alternatively, a pinch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce can substitute if you want some spice.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s simple with these tips. The key is to cook them just until they turn pink. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Start with a hot skillet. Heat butter and olive oil together for flavor.
- Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper before adding to the skillet.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for their color change!
- Once they’re opaque and pink, remove them from the pan to avoid overcooking.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Garlic can burn quickly, which can make your dish taste bitter. Here’s how to sauté it perfectly.
- Use medium heat – too high will scorch the garlic.
- Add garlic to the pan only after the butter has melted.
- Stir frequently and watch closely! Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but remove it from heat before it changes color.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon pieces (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll have a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This will help to create a nice sauce later. Set the drained pasta aside for now.
2. Searing the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Adding Flavor to the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute, stirring constantly to ensure it becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown—that can make it taste bitter.
4. Getting the Greens In:
Next, add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes, just until they wilt down nicely.
5. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated with the buttery garlic sauce. If the pasta seems dry, pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
6. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the crispy bacon pieces if you’re using them for that extra flavor. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if you want a refreshing touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color. Serve your rich, garlicky butter shrimp pasta warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and linguine are great options, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free varieties. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
What Should I Do If My Shrimp Are Frozen?
No problem! If your shrimp are frozen, it’s best to thaw them first. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta a bit lighter, consider reducing the amount of butter used or substituting with olive oil. You can also load up on more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, and use whole wheat or legume-based pasta for extra nutrition!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to help rejuvenate the sauce.