If you are craving a dish that effortlessly combines rich, comforting flavors with a fresh, vibrant touch, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and a luscious, garlicky butter sauce enriched with creamy parmesan and bright lemon zest. Each bite is a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to dishes whenever you want something both fancy and easy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly balanced textures. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of taste, from the garlicky richness to the fresh pop of spinach and lemon.
- 12 oz. pasta (preferably linguine): Provides the perfect base with a silky texture that holds the sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided use): Adds creamy richness and helps develop that irresistible garlic flavor.
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined, peeled, tail-off): The star protein of the dish, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- Salt + freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- 6 cloves garlic (minced): Imparts the iconic, aromatic punch that defines this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herb note to deepen the sauce’s complexity.
- â…“ cup white wine: Brings acidity and brightness to balance the richness.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Builds the sauce’s savory base and keeps it luscious without heaviness.
- ½ lemon (zest only): Infuses a fresh citrus aroma that lifts every bite.
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan: Offers salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the creamy sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream (or more to taste): Creates a luxuriously smooth texture and indulgent finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a splash of green freshness and mild herbal brightness.
- 3 cups baby spinach (not packed): Provides a tender, leafy bite with a vibrant color contrast.
- Lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and additional parmesan (optional for serving): Customize the final touch with extra zing, heat, or cheesiness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before the magic begins, prep everything so the cooking flows smoothly. Defrost shrimp if frozen, mince the garlic, chop the parsley, zest the lemon, and have your broth and wine ready. Boil a large pot of water for the pasta and place a colander nearby for quick draining. Setting aside a plate with foil keeps your cooked shrimp warm without drying out.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the linguine according to package directions in the boiling, salted water. The key here is to reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it—that starchy water will later help your sauce cling perfectly to the noodles and keep everything creamy without being too thick.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and develop beautiful brown edges. Remove the shrimp and cover with foil to keep warm, leaving the skillet ready for the sauce. Don’t worry if some brown bits remain; they’ll add extra flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet, and toss in your minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Let the garlic gently cook for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. Then, carefully pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Add the lemon zest and let this simmer for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream
Turn the heat down to a low simmer and stir in the parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Let the sauce gently bubble for about a minute—remember, no boiling here—to melt the cheese and thicken the sauce to a dreamy creaminess.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Return to your drained pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated. Add the fresh baby spinach and toss for another minute until wilted and bright green. Gradually drizzle in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring continuously to achieve the ideal silky texture. Fold in the cooked shrimp and if needed, add a splash more cream to make sure every strand of pasta is luxuriously covered in sauce.
Step 7: Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Serve immediately while warm. Garnish with extra grated parmesan, a sprinkle of black pepper, red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten everything up. This final step elevates the dish from fantastic to absolutely unforgettable.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
The magic of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe can be enhanced with simple garnishes. Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant green pop and fresh aroma, while an extra handful of parmesan cheese lends a decadent salty kick. If you like a bit of spice, red pepper flakes add warmth without overpowering the delicate garlic butter flavors. Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish and add a refreshing tartness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, light sides. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the butteriness, while roasted or steamed asparagus adds an earthy crunch. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also a classic choice to mop up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a more hearty meal, consider serving alongside a roasted vegetable medley or simple grilled zucchini.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests or family, presentation matters. Serve this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe in a large, shallow bowl to highlight the vibrant greens and shrimp nestled in the creamy sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges on the side for a pop of color and an on-the-spot citrus squeeze. For a cozy dinner, plate it family-style right from the skillet. Adding edible flowers or fresh herbs on top can also elevate the look for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the shrimp tender, avoid reheating for too long. The flavors often taste even better the next day after melding overnight.
Freezing
Freezing this pasta is possible but not ideal due to the cream sauce which can sometimes separate. If you choose to freeze, place the cooled pasta with shrimp in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore sauciness if needed. Avoid microwave reheating on high to help keep shrimp tender and prevent the sauce from breaking. Stir frequently and warm just until heated through for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully defrost the shrimp before cooking and pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely without steaming. This helps keep them tender and gives a lovely golden color.
What type of pasta works best for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Linguine is perfect because its flat, slightly wide shape holds the creamy sauce well. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even angel hair can also work wonderfully if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, swap butter for olive oil, use dairy-free cream alternatives, and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. While the flavor will differ slightly, you can still enjoy a delicious garlic shrimp pasta with these tweaks.
Is white wine necessary in the recipe?
White wine adds a subtle acidity and depth to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with additional chicken broth and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is mild by default. You can easily up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes during cooking or as a garnish, or keep it completely mild for kids and sensitive palates.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a true winner when you want something cozy, flavorful, and quick to make. It’s the kind of meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen, blending creamy richness with fresh, garlicky brightness. I encourage you to try it tonight and discover how easily it can become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines succulent seared shrimp, tender linguine, fresh spinach, and a luscious garlic butter sauce enriched with parmesan and a splash of white wine. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting pasta recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz. linguine pasta
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined, peeled, and tail-off; defrosted if frozen)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided use
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- â…“ cup white wine
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ lemon, zest only
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream (or more to taste and as needed)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Vegetables
- 3 cups baby spinach (not packed)
Optional for Serving
- Lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes
- Additional parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep: Prepare all ingredients by measuring and mincing the garlic, zesting the lemon, chopping parsley, and setting aside plates with foil to keep cooked shrimp warm. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta and set a colander in the sink for draining.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the linguine in the boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep warm on a plate covered with foil. Wipe the skillet clean only if there are large browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, add the lemon zest, then simmer the mixture for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Cheese and Cream: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1 more minute, taking care not to let it boil.
- Combine Pasta and Finish: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the baby spinach and toss until it wilts, about 1 minute. Gradually add reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time, tossing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, evenly coating the pasta. Finally, toss in the cooked shrimp and add extra cream if needed for desired sauce consistency.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan, freshly ground black pepper, red pepper flakes for heat, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- Reserve pasta cooking water to help loosen and emulsify the sauce.
- Do not boil the sauce after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture, but frozen defrosted shrimp works well.
- Add extra heavy cream to adjust sauce thickness according to preference.
- Optional garnishes like lemon juice and red pepper flakes add brightness and a spicy kick.
