Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

 Ultimate Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

Looking for a restaurant-quality meal you can make in just 30 minutes? This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the answer! It combines succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, tossed with tender pasta and finished with a hint of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. The silky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating an irresistible blend of creamy, garlicky goodness with a touch of zesty lemon for balance. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a household favorite!

---

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

8 oz fettuccine or linguine – The wide noodles help soak up the creamy sauce, but you can substitute with spaghetti or penne for versatility.

Salt (for boiling water) – Essential for seasoning the pasta as it cooks.

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star of the dish, providing sweet, tender bites that complement the creamy sauce.

1 tbsp olive oil – Helps sear the shrimp quickly while adding subtle flavor.

1/2 tsp paprika – Adds mild smokiness and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Salt and pepper, to taste – Balances the shrimp’s flavor profile.

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp unsalted butter – Forms the base of the rich, velvety sauce.

4 garlic cloves, minced – Provides bold, aromatic flavor, essential for the garlic butter theme.

1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth – Adds depth while keeping the sauce from becoming too heavy.

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a savory, cheesy finish.

1 tbsp lemon juice – Cuts through the richness with a hint of brightness.

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Offers a subtle kick for those who enjoy a little heat.

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds color and freshness to finish the dish.

---

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

2. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.

4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and thicken the sauce.

5. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes for a burst of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it.

2. Gently fold in the shrimp to coat with sauce.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

2. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

---

Why This Recipe is Loved

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.

Rich and Flavorful – Combines creamy, garlicky goodness with fresh, vibrant shrimp.

Versatile – Works with various pasta types and proteins like chicken or scallops.

---

Pro Tips for Perfection

Choose High-Quality Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed) for the best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, which can turn rubbery when reheated.

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook just until pink to keep them juicy and tender.

Balance the Sauce: Adjust the lemon juice and Parmesan levels to suit your taste preferences. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps loosen the sauce if it thickens too much while mixing.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with:

Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Side Salad – A Caesar salad or arugula salad adds a refreshing contrast.

White Wine – A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the rich flavors beautifully.

---

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent, flavorful meals without hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy shrimp, a velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a go-to recipe for weeknights and dinner parties alike.

Whether you’re impressing guests or treating 

yourself, this recipe promises to deliver comfort and elegance in every bite. Try it today and discover why it’s one of the most popular shrimp pasta dishes online!