Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious meal that takes minimal time to prepare, look no further than this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Bursting with flavors from succulent shrimp, garlic, and a touch of lemon, this dish brings a taste of coastal dining right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering with friends and family.
What makes this recipe a standout is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few fresh ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that not only looks stunning but tastes absolutely divine. Your loved ones will rave about the rich garlic butter sauce enveloping every strand of pasta, making this a meal they’ll request again and again.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly plated.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Fresh ingredients ready for preparation.
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Combine Components: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and zest. Add the red pepper flakes if using, and bring to a simmer.
Mix Pasta and Shrimp: Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet. Mix well to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon zest if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap the shrimp for chicken or cooked scallops, or even replace the pasta with zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Optional Variations: Try adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for additional color and nutrition.
Storage or Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help loosen the sauce.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
Image of a simple seafood dish, showcasing fresh ingredients.