Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich garlic butter sauce and perfectly cooked fettuccine. This easy-to-make pasta dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or simply when you want to indulge in a delicious meal. The fresh flavors of garlic and lemon paired with the tender shrimp create an unforgettable taste experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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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 Sauce
• How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
• Step 2: Sauté Garlic
• Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 4: Add Flavorings
• Step 5: Combine Pasta
• Step 6: Garnish and Serve
• Step 7: Enjoy!
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• With Fresh Herbs
• With Lemon Wedges
• With Grated Cheese
• With Crusty Bread
• 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
• What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• Can I use frozen shrimp?
• How can I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What side dishes go well with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: This pasta can be served as a main course or as a side dish, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute the shrimp with chicken or other proteins.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Colander
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the fettuccine pasta evenly.
• Frying pan: Ideal for sautéing the garlic and shrimp without overcrowding them.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz Fettuccine

For the Shrimp Sauce

• 1 lb Shrimp
• 4 cloves 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)
• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt
• Black Pepper

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine until al dente. Once done, drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a frying pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant for about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Melt butter in the same pan. Then add the shrimp. Stir occasionally until they turn opaque white with some pink color, approximately 4-6 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Add lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir until everything is combined and the parmesan cheese has melted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta

Transfer the cooked fettuccine into the pan with the shrimp mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Dig in and savor each bite of this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the garlic butter sauce.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their pasta, adding brightness to each bite.
• Lemon Zest Garnish: A sprinkle of lemon zest enhances flavor and adds a visually appealing finish.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra grated parmesan on the side for those who love a cheesy kick.
• Crumbled Feta: For a twist, serve with crumbled feta cheese, which adds a creamy texture and salty flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for dipping into the buttery sauce, making every meal more satisfying.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Serve with warm ciabatta rolls that guests can tear apart and enjoy alongside their pasta.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

To ensure you achieve the best results with your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality garlic for maximum flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine until just al dente to maintain texture when combined with the sauce.
• Control the Heat: Sauté garlic over medium heat to prevent burning and bitterness in your dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Pairing sides with your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice; crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese and croutons provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture and complements the pasta beautifully.
4. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy veggie option that’s easy to prepare; simply steam until tender.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a vibrant side dish.
6. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this appetizer brings a burst of flavor before the main course.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as a side or even mix them into the pasta!
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a light balance to the rich pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the salt: Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland noodles. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Aim for just 4-6 minutes until they turn opaque and pink.
• Not using fresh garlic: Pre-minced garlic lacks flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves for the best taste.
• Ignoring lemon juice: Forgetting lemon juice can make your dish taste flat. The acidity brightens the flavors, so don’t skip it!
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap parmesan can affect texture and flavor. Opt for freshly grated parmesan for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the pasta cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
• Ensure to label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then stir in pasta until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delicious main course featuring shrimp cooked in garlic butter sauce served over fettuccine pasta.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How can I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, or switch up the pasta type based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect for making ahead of time for busy meals throughout the week.

What side dishes go well with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Pair it with a simple salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out your meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will impress anyone at your table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s both quick and satisfying!