Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is the kind of recipe that brings together elegance and ease in a single skillet. Tender shrimp, golden and fragrant with garlic, meet perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, buttery sauce. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy enough for guests, yet quick and comforting enough for a weeknight dinner. At Best Bread Machine, where we value simplicity, heartwarming meals, and efficient cooking for busy home bakers and families, this pasta dish checks every box.

With its beautiful aroma, satisfying texture, and fast preparation, garlic butter shrimp pasta is a staple recipe that belongs in every kitchen. Whether paired with a slice of fresh bread or a crisp side salad, it’s a wholesome, flavor-packed meal you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes
• One-pan friendly: Less cleanup, more flavor
• Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy, just pantry staples
• Versatile: Works with spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles
• Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for picky eaters, seafood lovers, and busy families

Garlic butter and shrimp are a classic pairing for good reason. When paired with pasta, they transform into something creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Pasta:

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Tongs and spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.

4. Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Stir in Parmesan cheese and half of the chopped parsley. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything together.

5. Serve Warm

Plate the garlic butter shrimp pasta and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and remaining parsley. Serve with lemon wedges or crusty bread if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh garlic: Avoid pre-minced for the best flavor
• Do not overcook shrimp: They cook quickly and can become rubbery
• Reserve pasta water: It helps emulsify the sauce and add silkiness
• Finish in the skillet: Tossing the pasta in the sauce builds better flavor
• Taste and season: Always adjust salt, lemon, or cheese to suit your palate

Serving Suggestions

Pair your garlic butter shrimp pasta with:

• Fresh homemade bread or garlic knots
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini
• A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

This dish is equally lovely for a casual dinner or special date night.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Shrimp: Can be cleaned and prepped ahead of time
• Pasta: Cook a few hours ahead, toss in oil, and store in fridge
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water
• Freezing not recommended: Sauce may separate

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw thoroughly and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make it dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast.

Can I make it gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that other ingredients are GF-safe.

Can I add vegetables? Yes. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas work beautifully. Sauté them after the garlic.

Is white wine necessary? No, but it adds depth. You can skip it or substitute with chicken broth.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Add Cajun seasoning to shrimp
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Add 1/4 cup cream and simmer with garlic
• Pesto Shrimp Pasta: Stir in a spoonful of pesto with the pasta
• Herbed Lemon Pasta: Add extra herbs like basil, thyme, or dill
• Shrimp and Spinach Pasta: Toss in baby spinach with the shrimp

Making It Kid-Friendly

• Reduce the garlic to 2–3 cloves for milder flavor
• Skip red pepper flakes
• Use small pasta shapes like penne if easier for little ones

Invite kids to help:

• Stir the pasta
• Sprinkle the cheese
• Arrange lemon wedges on plates

A Balanced Family Favorite

At Best Bread Machine, we know that even a quick dinner can be joyful. Garlic butter shrimp pasta brings restaurant-worthy flavor to your home kitchen. With pantry staples, minimal effort, and maximum comfort, this meal is proof that simplicity doesn’t mean boring.

Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed evening with family, this dish brings warmth and connection to the table.

Conclusion

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a go-to recipe for busy cooks who want to serve something satisfying and flavorful. With tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly coated pasta, every bite delivers on comfort and taste. Make it once, and it’s sure to become part of your regular rotation.

Gather your ingredients, set the table, and let the scent of garlic and butter fill your home.