If you are looking for a dish that bursts with bright, buttery flavor and a touch of garlic-infused zest, then this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. It combines tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious lemon butter sauce that feels indulgent yet light. This recipe is an absolute home run when you want an impressive but simple meal anytime — whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balance of flavors, colors, and textures in this dish is just so satisfying, and trust me, once you make it, you’ll be dreaming about seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is in how simple yet purposeful the ingredients are. Each one adds something unique that builds layers of flavor, texture, or freshness that make the dish sing.
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up that amazing lemon butter sauce.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp bring a sweet, tender seafood note that’s central to the dish.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter forms the creamy, rich base of the sauce, providing that comforting melt-in-your-mouth element.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a wonderful aromatic punch that elevates everything it touches.
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon: The star ingredient, bringing bright acidity and freshness that wakes up your palate.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle hint of heat that balances nicely with the citrus and butter.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds vibrant green color and a subtle herbaceous finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A nutty, savory touch that brings extra depth to every bite.
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your linguine or spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures your pasta has that ideal chew without being mushy. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining — it’s magic for loosening the sauce later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a wide skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter and add the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn bright pink and opaque. Season well with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Then remove the shrimp and set them aside. This step seals in those juicy flavors and gives the shrimp a delicate, buttery coating.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Sauté this fragrant mixture for about a minute, just until you can smell those irresistible garlicky notes filling your kitchen. This simple sauce base harmonizes perfectly with the shrimp and pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add your cooked pasta right into the skillet with the buttery garlic sauce. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle in the lemon zest, stirring everything together to marry those bright, tangy flavors with buttery richness. If the pasta looks dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water—it loosens the sauce and helps it cling beautifully to every strand.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Return the pink, buttery shrimp to the skillet with the pasta and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. This step pulls all the key components together for that perfect balanced bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese on top if you love that salty, nutty finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce’s creamy texture and vibrant flavors at their very best. If you want to add a little extra pizzazz, a pinch more lemon zest on each plate makes it pop visually and flavor-wise.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds an inviting splash of green but also a mild herbaceous note that refreshes the palate. Thin lemon slices or wedges nearby give an extra zesty visual and let guests brighten their plates just to their liking. A dusting of Parmesan cheese adds an elegant touch that pairs wonderfully with the seafood.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with light side dishes like a crisp mixed greens salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans make the meal even more well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the pasta in wide, shallow bowls helps to showcase the colorful shrimp, bright parsley, and glistening sauce. You can also layer the shrimp strategically on top of the pasta for a restaurant-style look. For a fun presentation, add edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of unexpected flair that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The shrimp can become a bit firmer when chilled, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated gently to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not recommended, as the delicate shrimp and pasta texture may suffer. The sauce can separate when thawed, and the shrimp might become rubbery. If you want to prepare components in advance, freeze cooked shrimp separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or additional butter to revive the sauce. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the shrimp tender and the pasta perfectly coated. This careful reheating preserves the fresh flavors and luscious texture that make the Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe so appealing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture. This helps the shrimp sauté nicely and absorb all the buttery garlic goodness.
What type of pasta works best with Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Linguine and spaghetti are excellent choices because their long, thin shape picks up the sauce beautifully without overwhelming the shrimp. You can try fettuccine or even angel hair if you prefer.
Is the red pepper flakes ingredient necessary?
Not at all—red pepper flakes are optional and add just a gentle hint of heat. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder dish or spice it up more if you enjoy a little kick.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a vegan butter. The flavor profile will change slightly but remain delicious and vibrant.
How can I make this dish more filling or nutritious?
Additions like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted asparagus are perfect for boosting both color and nutrition. They blend seamlessly with the flavors and add lovely textures to each bite.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that feels both comforting and special, with simple ingredients coming together to deliver maximum flavor and joy. Perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests, it’s sure to become a cherished classic in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter with al dente linguine, brightened by fresh lemon juice and zest. This easy yet elegant recipe makes a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful meal to impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. If the pasta looks dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to moisten.
- Add Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together gently. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and enjoy immediately, optionally garnishing with extra lemon zest for a fresh citrus aroma.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust lemon zest and juice quantities to taste for stronger citrus notes.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat to the dish.
- For added nutrition and color, incorporate vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the lemony flavors.
