This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that’s sure to impress! With juicy shrimp bathed in buttery garlic sauce and tossed with pasta, it’s flavor-packed and comforting.
You’ll love how fast it comes together—perfect for a busy weeknight! I always find myself making extra so I can enjoy it for lunch the next day. Who doesn’t love a good pasta feast? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine work great for this dish, but feel free to switch to any pasta shape you like. Penne or fettuccine can also be used. If you’re gluten-free, there are wonderful gluten-free pasta options available!
Shrimp: Using large shrimp gives this dish a nice bite, but medium shrimp or even smaller ones work too. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try substituting sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a filling texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for better control over the saltiness of the dish. You can use salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe. For a healthier option, feel free to substitute with olive oil.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove of fresh garlic.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. You can use kale or even frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) in a pinch. If you aren’t a fan of leafy greens, you can skip this ingredient.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quite simple, but getting it just right can be a bit tricky. Here’s how to ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked:
- Start by heating the skillet over medium heat with olive oil and some butter.
- Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan, so they cook evenly.
- Remove the shrimp just as they turn pink; they will continue to cook off the heat!
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have lovely, perfectly tender shrimp that add flavor to your pasta!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be whipped up in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes sautéing the shrimp and combining everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta but save about half a cup of the pasta water—you’ll need it later! Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the shrimp, making sure to season them with a little salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. When they’re ready, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
3. Create the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the fresh spinach and cook for just another minute until it wilts.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to return the shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and spinach. Toss everything together nicely. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix it all together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if you find it’s a little dry. Stir everything well!
5. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the pasta (if using). Toss everything together again, adjusting with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your wonderful Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley if you like!
Enjoy your meal full of flavors and perfect for sharing with family and friends! 🍤🍝
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly submerging them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning!
What’s a Good Substitute for Pasta?
If you want to try something different, you can substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option. Simply sauté them lightly before adding the shrimp and sauce to keep them from getting soggy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or a little more butter to restore the creamy sauce.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. Just add them to the skillet along with the spinach and cook until tender.
