Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce, creating a delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:46:15.496Z

This Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a family favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it's perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic and butter flavor that elevates the shrimp
Pasta coated in a silky sauce that clings beautifully
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When the week gets busy, finding time to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal can feel overwhelming. This Comforting Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to make, but it also brings a comforting touch to your dining table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet yet is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner.

Shrimp cooks rapidly, making it an ideal protein choice for those evenings when you need to get dinner on the table fast. Paired with spaghetti and a flavor-packed garlic butter sauce, this recipe ensures that you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavor Combinations that Work

The combination of garlic and butter is a classic for a reason. When you sauté fresh garlic in butter, it infuses the entire dish with a rich, savory aroma that makes your mouth water. Adding red pepper flakes provides just the right amount of heat, balancing the richness of the butter and enhancing the sweet flavor of the shrimp.

Tossing the spaghetti in this luscious sauce allows each strand to soak up all the flavors, ensuring a delicious bite every time. The addition of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a herbal freshness that brightens the dish, making it well-rounded and satisfying.

Customizing Your Dish

While this recipe is delightful as is, one of its strengths is its versatility. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost and a splash of color. You could also swap spaghetti for your favorite pasta shape or use whole grain or gluten-free options to suit your dietary preferences.

For seafood lovers, consider adding scallops or even lobster to elevate this dish further. The garlic butter sauce complements a variety of seafood, making it easy to adapt the recipe to your taste and desired level of indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Serve

Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Now that you've made this delightful dish, dig in and enjoy every bite!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain flavor and texture. Allow the pasta and shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to two days, making this dish a great option for meal prep.

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of the garlic butter shrimp pasta, consider serving it with a light salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery pasta, enhancing your dining experience.

For drinks, a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the dish, cutting through the richness and complementing the flavors of the shrimp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What other pasta can I use?

Feel free to substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta of your choice.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.