Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Twirl into this garlic butter shrimp pasta — loaded with juicy shrimp, bold garlic flavor, and a silky butter sauce that makes every bite irresistible.

If you need a dinner that feels a little fancy but comes together fast, this garlic butter shrimp pasta is exactly what you’re looking for. It’s rich, buttery, packed with garlic flavor, and loaded with tender shrimp—all tossed with pasta in a silky, restaurant-style sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes.

This is one of those recipes that looks impressive but is secretly simple. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, date nights at home, or when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of butter, garlic, and juicy shrimp creates a bold, savory flavor that coats every bite of pasta, while a touch of brightness (like lemon or herbs) keeps it balanced and fresh. Serve it with a side salad or crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels way more elevated than the effort it takes.

If you love easy pasta recipes, quick seafood dinners, or buttery garlic flavors, this garlic butter shrimp pasta is about to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt.

2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

3. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.

4. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.

5. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

6. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

7. Add red pepper flakes (if using) and lemon juice, stirring to combine.

8. Pour in reserved pasta water and stir to create a light sauce.

9. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.

10. Return shrimp to the pan and toss gently to combine.

11. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

12. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.