Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a rich, flavorful, and quick dish that combines juicy shrimp with a creamy garlic butter sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-style meal you can easily prepare at home in less than 30 minutes.
This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who want something delicious, simple, and impressive without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 250g spaghetti or fettuccine
- Water and salt for boiling
For the shrimp:
- 300g shrimp (peeled and cleaned)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the shrimp
Heat olive oil in a pan. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the sauce
In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently.
Add Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine everything
Add cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce. Mix well so everything is coated evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Sprinkle chili flakes and fresh parsley on top. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcook shrimp (they become rubbery)
- Use fresh garlic for stronger flavor
- Add pasta water if sauce becomes too thick
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking shrimp
- Using too much heat on cream sauce
- Not seasoning shrimp properly
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Fresh salad
- Lemon water or juice
Storage
- Store in fridge up to 2 days
- Reheat gently on low heat
- Not ideal for freezing
Variations
- Add spinach or mushrooms
- Use chicken instead of shrimp
- Make it spicy with extra chili flakes
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them before cooking.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy.
What pasta works best?
Spaghetti or fettuccine are ideal.
Nutrition Note
This dish is rich in protein from shrimp and energy from pasta. It’s a balanced meal when eaten in moderation.
