What kind of shrimp should I use for the best flavor and texture?

For the best results, use large raw shrimp (31/40 count), peeled and deveined. Wild-caught shrimp often have a better flavor than farm-raised. You can keep the tails on for presentation or remove them for easier eating. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Shrimp cook very quickly—typically just 1–2 minutes per side . They’re done as soon as they turn pink and opaque and start to curl into a "C" shape. Overcooking causes them to become tough and rubbery. Remove them from the pan right after cooking and set aside until the pasta and sauce are ready.

What type of pasta works best, and can I substitute it?

Linguine or spaghetti are the most common choices because they hold the buttery garlic sauce well. However, you can use fettuccine, angel hair, or even penne depending on what you have. For a healthier option, try whole wheat or chickpea pasta , or use zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb version.

What’s the secret to making a flavorful garlic butter sauce?

The key is to gently sauté minced garlic in melted butter until fragrant—about 1–2 minutes. Do not brown the garlic or it will taste bitter. Adding a splash of lemon juice , chicken broth , or white wine will brighten the flavor. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley , cracked black pepper , and grated parmesan for extra richness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh , as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. If you need to prep ahead, you can: Cook the pasta and store it with a bit of olive oil. Prep the garlic and other ingredients ahead of time. Sauté the shrimp just before serving. If you do have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

What can I add to make this a more complete meal?

To round out the meal, try adding: Vegetables: Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus. Protein: Mix in a few scallops or serve with grilled chicken if feeding a larger crowd. Sides: Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted veggies pair beautifully. This way, your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta becomes not just a quick dish, but a balanced and satisfying dinner.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – The Best 30-Minute Comfort Food Recipe

Description

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish made with juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. A comforting classic ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

250g (9 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine
2 tbsp olive oil
400g (14 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté shrimp in olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Melt butter in the same pan. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
Add pasta to the pan. Toss with butter mixture, then add shrimp back.
Season with lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper.
Serve hot, topped with parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp and high-quality butter. You can also add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or a splash of white wine for extra depth. If you prefer a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: DINNER