Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: The Ultimate Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Introduction to Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
If you’re looking for a delicious yet simple dish that brings the taste of the sea to your dinner table, look no further than garlic butter shrimp pasta. This comforting meal combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and tender linguine pasta for a dish that’s sure to please family and friends alike. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
A Personal Story Behind My Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for meals filled with love and laughter. One of my fondest memories is when my grandmother would whip up her famous shrimp pasta dish on special occasions. The aroma of garlic and butter would fill the air, making everyone’s mouth water. This recipe is inspired by her classic dish, and every time I make it, I feel her warmth and love surrounding me. It’s a recipe that brings back cherished memories while creating new ones.
What Makes This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe Special?
This garlic butter shrimp pasta is special not just for its flavor but also for its simplicity. The combination of fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and creamy sauce creates a delightful balance that is both satisfying and indulgent. The optional addition of Old Bay seasoning or smoked paprika gives it a unique twist that elevates the dish. Plus, with a total prep and cook time of only 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Full Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp (frozen, peeled, and deveined)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional) or smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (40 grams) grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, boil water and add salt. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning or paprika. Cook until the shrimp turns pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. If needed, cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set the cooked shrimp aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and deglaze the pan with a spatula, scraping up any brown bits. Add Parmesan cheese and let it melt. Thin the sauce with reserved pasta water as necessary. Simmer for a minute and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated. Reheat the shrimp in the sauce for a minute, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve. Tip: For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This garlic butter shrimp pasta is delicious on its own, but there are several ways to elevate the dish further. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the meal. For a heartier version, toss in some sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or add more spices to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to pair this dish with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to complement the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the linguine with a gluten-free pasta of your choice.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute and omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 480
Servings: 4
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound raw shrimp frozen, peeled, and deveined
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning optional
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, boil water and add salt. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning or paprika. Cook until the shrimp turns pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. If needed, cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set the cooked shrimp aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and deglaze the pan with a spatula, scraping up any brown bits. Add Parmesan cheese and let it melt. Thin the sauce with reserved pasta water as necessary. Simmer for a minute and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated. Reheat the shrimp in the sauce for a minute, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.