Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich garlic butter and perfectly cooked fettuccine. This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Its creamy texture and zesty lemon flavor make it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Shrimp
• For the Sauce
• For Cooking
• How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
• Step 2: Sauté Garlic
• Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 4: Make the Sauce
• Step 5: Combine with Pasta
• Step 6: Serve
• Step 7: Enjoy!
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Use Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Wine
• Add Crunchy Toppings
• Serve with a Salad
• How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• What can I substitute for fettuccine in this recipe?
• Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta healthy?
• How can I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• What should I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile: Great as a main course, side dish, or even meal prep for the week.
• Elegant Presentation: This pasta looks impressive on the plate, making it ideal for special occasions.
• Customizable: Add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything organized will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the fettuccine to achieve al dente perfection.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and shrimp while allowing for easy mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz Fettuccine

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb Shrimp

For the Sauce

• 4 clove Garlic
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
• 4 tbsp Butter
• ¼ Juice of Lemon (Juice from 1/4 of Lemon)
• ¼ Lemon Zest (Zest from 1/4 of Lemon)

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt
• Black Pepper

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot boiling salted water, cook fettuccine pasta until al dente. Drain well then set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Cook garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Melt butter in the same skillet. Add shrimp and stir occasionally until they turn opaque white with some pink color, about 4-6 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined and the parmesan cheese has melted.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Transfer the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce. Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with parsley before serving.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!

This recipe serves about five people and can be prepared in around 45 minutes total. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for quick yet satisfying meal options!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. By presenting it thoughtfully, you can elevate your dining occasion and impress your guests.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add aromatic basil leaves for an extra layer of flavor.

Pair with Wine

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon slices for a refreshing touch.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Toasted Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for an added crunch that contrasts with the creamy pasta.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to give it a spicy kick.

Serve with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing a crisp texture alongside the pasta.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and lightness.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is easy, but there are ways to ensure it turns out perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will have better texture and flavor than frozen ones. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine just until al dente to avoid mushiness when mixed with sauce.
• Sauté Garlic Gently: Cooking garlic too long can lead to bitterness. Sauté until fragrant for about two minutes.
• Add Cheese Gradually: To prevent clumping, add parmesan cheese slowly while stirring continuously.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Complement your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with these side dishes that enhance the meal’s flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and a healthy crunch beside your pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized create depth in flavor that pairs nicely.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the rich flavors of the pasta while adding crunch.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brings additional sweetness and texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them tough. Aim for 4-6 minutes until they are opaque and pink.
• Skipping the salt in pasta water: Not seasoning the water can lead to bland pasta. Always add sea salt to enhance flavor.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan can lack flavor and texture. Use freshly grated cheese for the best results.
• Not adjusting lemon juice: Using too much lemon juice can overpower the dish. Start with a little and adjust to your taste.
• Ignoring proper pasta cooking time: Undercooked or overcooked pasta alters the dish’s texture. Follow package instructions for al dente results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What can I substitute for fettuccine in this recipe?

You can use spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta shape you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta healthy?

This dish offers a balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying meal. Pair it with veggies for added nutrition.

How can I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with spices and herbs.

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, adding freshness and crunch.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful main course that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile; you can customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal!