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Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Close-up of Garlic Butter Shrimp with Pasta coated in a creamy sauce and topped with fresh parsley.

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Make this quick and flavorful shrimp pasta dinner using simple ingredients like butter and garlic for a fast weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant; do not let the garlic burn.
  4. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  5. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, white wine (or broth), and lemon juice to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until a light sauce forms that coats the pasta.
  7. Return the shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together. Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a cheesy finish, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese at the very end.
  • Use frozen shrimp; thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking for the best sear.
  • If you do not have wine, use chicken broth or vegetable broth for the sauce base.

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