Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe | Easy & Flavorful 30-Minute Meal

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe | Easy & Flavorful 30-Minute Meal

Introduction

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home, this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is perfect for you! This dish combines tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, fresh lemon juice, and perfectly cooked pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (or dry white wine for more flavor)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and stir to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream (if using). Stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
2. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon slices.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta! 🍝🦐🍋

Tips for the Best Shrimp Pasta

✔ Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will make a huge difference in flavor.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so watch them closely!
✔ Customize It! – Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
✔ Spice It Up – Increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Now, time to dig in! 😋🍽️ Let me know if you try this recipe! 🎉