Some dishes just have that wow factor, and this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is definitely one of them. Imagine twirling your fork into buttery, garlicky pasta, with juicy shrimp that melt in your mouth. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—but the best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes! Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or something impressive for date night, this one’s a keeper.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Pasta: The perfect base for soaking up all that garlicky butter goodness. Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best.
Shrimp: The star of the show! Large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, cook up juicy and tender.
Butter & Olive Oil: A dreamy combination that creates the rich, silky sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must—it infuses the entire dish with incredible aroma and flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a nice little kick if you love some heat.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan takes this dish over the top with extra umami flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness at the end.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining to help create a silky sauce later.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same pan, add more butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra punch of flavor.
Combine Everything: Return the shrimp to the pan and toss in the cooked pasta. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and coat everything evenly.
Finish & Serve: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy every garlicky, buttery bite!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to [time duration]. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, scallops, or even tofu can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything except the pasta and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and toss it in the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to [time duration]. For best results, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when thawed. However, you can freeze the sauce separately and toss with fresh pasta when needed.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large enough pan to evenly cook everything without overcrowding.
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a true game-changer—easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This shrimp tomato spinach pasta is a quick and easy dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes! Juicy shrimp are tossed with garlic butter, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach, then mixed with perfectly cooked pasta for a flavor-packed Mediterranean meal. This dish is light, yet satisfying, and can be enjoyed as a healthy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests
Ingredients
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8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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¼ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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Juice of ½ lemon
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Notes
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Pasta Options: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or low-carb pasta if preferred.
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Wine Substitute: Swap white wine for extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating Tip: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent dryness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 180mg