Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together succulent shrimp and creamy garlic butter, all tossed with fettuccine pasta. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. The combination of flavors makes it an irresistible choice for seafood lovers. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal in just a short time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The garlic butter sauce infuses the shrimp and pasta with rich flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and garnishes make this dish look as good as it tastes.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make things easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Pan
- Cooking spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Pan: Used for sautéing garlic and shrimp, ensuring even cooking and flavor development.
Ingredients
To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, you will need the following 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 the Garlic
In a pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Cook garlic until fragrant for about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Melt butter in the same pan. Add shrimp and stir occasionally until they turn opaque white with some pink, approximately 4-6 minutes.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir until combined and the parmesan cheese melts.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Transfer the cooked fettuccine into the pan. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with parsley before serving to add color and freshness.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures. Here are some excellent ways to serve this dish for maximum enjoyment.
For a Classic Touch
- Serve with Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness to the dish.
- Top with Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the pasta beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad with a balsamic vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.
With Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into any remaining sauce.
- Focaccia: This soft Italian bread offers a nice chewy texture to accompany your meal.
Wine Pairing
- Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with shrimp dishes.
- Chardonnay: Opt for an unoaked Chardonnay for a smooth finish alongside your pasta.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
To elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp until just opaque; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
- Add More Garlic: For garlic lovers, feel free to increase the amount of garlic for extra flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try adding grated Pecorino Romano for a different cheese flavor that pairs well with seafood.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can create a delightful dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a fresh contrast in flavors.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw can complement the creamy pasta well.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus provides an appealing texture and taste alongside shrimp pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s quality. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough and rubbery. Aim for opaque white with a slight pink hue, about 4-6 minutes.
- Not salting the pasta water – Salt enhances the pasta’s flavor. Always add enough salt to your boiling water before cooking the fettuccine.
- Skipping the lemon zest – Lemon zest adds a fresh aroma and flavor. Don’t skip it; use fresh zest from the lemon to elevate your dish.
- Forgetting to drain properly – If you leave excess water on your pasta, it can dilute the sauce. Make sure to drain well before mixing with the shrimp and sauce.
- Using pre-grated cheese – Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Grate fresh cheese for a creamier texture.
- Rushing the cooking process – Take your time and cook over medium heat. Quick cooking can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It is best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Heat in a pan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pairs well with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just make sure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta easy to customize?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles as an alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead of time but avoid mixing them until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines comfort and elegance. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a sumptuous dish that beautifully marries succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, all tossed with fettuccine pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, allowing you to whip up a gourmet meal in under 45 minutes. With its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation, this dish will impress seafood lovers and make family dinners memorable. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a delightful finishing touch.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 lb shrimp
- 4 cloves garlic
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- Juice and zest of ¼ lemon
- Cooking oil
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Melt butter in the same pan, add shrimp, and cook until opaque and pink (4-6 minutes).
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the pan and mix well.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 220mg