Garlic Shrimp Pasta Butter

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is pure comfort with just the right hit of garlic buttery shrimp and a twirl of al dente noodles. This is my weeknight go to when I want something rich and satisfying yet still fresh and fast. It is the one dish that never fails to gather my family to the table with big smiles and even bigger appetites.

My favorite thing about this recipe is how the garlic fills the kitchen with its aroma blasting everyone’s hunger into high gear. The first time I served this it disappeared so fast someone was tipping the bowl to catch every last bit of sauce.

Ingredients

• Medium shrimp: deveined and tails removed. For the best flavor look for wild caught shrimp or any with a firm texture and bright color.
• Spaghetti noodles: I like to use bronze cut pasta but any quality spaghetti works for excellent bite.
• Garlic cloves minced: Fresh garlic makes the difference. Choose bulbs that feel heavy and have tight skins.
• Butter: Classic for richness and helps anchor the flavors. Use good quality real butter for the best sauce.
• Olive oil: Added in drizzles for flavor and helps sauté and finish the pasta. Use extra virgin for the grassy peppery notes.
• Italian seasoning: Adds depth and a hint of the Mediterranean. I grind mine fresh if I have time.
• Fresh ground pepper: Brightens the dish and brings mild heat. Always grind right before using.
• Red pepper flakes: Offers a gentle kick and warms the flavor. Without it the dish is a little flat.
• Salt: Balances and lifts all the flavors. I like a flaky sea salt for the final toss.
• Fresh herbs: For color and brightness. Parsley and basil are my favorites. Pick leaves with vivid color and no wilting.

Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Add spaghetti to a large pot of salted boiling water. Drizzle in a bit of olive oil and toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil if you have them. This gives the pasta subtle flavor as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the noodles are al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Shrimp:

While the noodles cook wash the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry. Spread out on a plate and season lightly with salt and a pinch of pepper if desired. This helps each piece stay juicy and seasoned.

Cook the Shrimp:

Melt butter over medium heat in a wide skillet. Once foaming add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for two to three minutes until the first side turns bright pink and just begins to curl. Flip each shrimp using tongs to cook the second side evenly.

Add the Garlic:

Scatter in the minced garlic all around the shrimp. Stir gently letting the garlic cook until fragrant about a minute more. The buttered garlic will coat everything and build an amazing base of flavor but be careful not to let it brown.

Finish and Toss:

Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet then slide in the drained pasta. Pour in a small amount of reserved pasta water just to loosen everything. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning cracked pepper red pepper flakes and a bit of salt. Toss and mix until each noodle is coated and everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serve:

Twirl onto plates and shower with extra herbs if desired. Eat right away for the brightest freshest flavor.

Pin it

The warmth reminds me of lively family dinners where everyone is laughing and passing bowls around the table.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen the pasta. Avoid microwaving shrimp on full power as it can toughen the texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh shrimp use frozen but thaw and pat dry before cooking. You can swap spaghetti for linguine or fettuccine even short pasta works in a pinch. Dairy free butter or a splash of white wine can be added for a lighter base. If you do not like heat skip the red pepper flakes or replace with a pinch of smoked paprika for gentle warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Brighten the plates with a squeeze of lemon just before serving. Add a crisp green salad and a loaf of crusty bread to round out the meal. For a fancier touch toss in halved cherry tomatoes or a handful of baby spinach during the final toss in the skillet.

Cultural Context

Shrimp pasta dishes are found up and down the Italian coast. Each region uses their own mix of herbs pasta and local seafood. Garlic shrimp pasta became a family staple in my kitchen after trying something similar on vacation in southern Italy and the memory still sneaks into every bite.

Pin it

This dish comes together so quickly and fills your home with an irresistible aroma. You will find yourself coming back to it again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

Sauté shrimp just until they curl and turn pink; overcooking can make them rubbery. Remove promptly from heat.

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, linguine or fettuccine work well. Adjust cooking time based on package directions for your pasta choice.

→ What herbs pair best with garlic shrimp pasta?

Fresh parsley, basil, or chives add bright flavor and freshness. Add just before serving for best results.

→ Is it possible to make this spicy?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne when cooking to give the dish a fiery kick.

→ How can I keep the pasta from sticking together?

Mix cooked pasta with a little olive oil after draining. Toss well in the skillet as you add the shrimp and sauce.

→ Can this be prepared ahead?

For best texture, cook just before serving. Reheat gently with a splash of water to revive the sauce if needed.