Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. 🍤🍝
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in less than 30 minutes. The garlic and butter bring out the best flavors in the shrimp, while the pasta makes it hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seafood in a comforting, familiar dish! 🧄🧈
How to prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti 🍝
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled 🍤
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes 🌶️
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving 🧀
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 🍽️
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Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. 🧄🔥
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Add the shrimp: Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. 🍤✨
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Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the garlic butter sauce. If needed, add a splash of pasta cooking water for a smoother sauce. 🍝❤️
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Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. 🌿🧀
How to serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can add a side salad or some crusty bread to complement the meal. 🍽️🥗
How to store Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a dash of extra butter to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. 🥡
Tips for preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Fresh shrimp is ideal: If possible, use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep an eye on them; overcooked shrimp can become tough.
- Customize the spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference! 🌶️
Variations
- Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a bit of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Switch the pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta like fettuccine or penne for a different twist. 🍝🥦🍅
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for the best results. 🧊
Q: What can I substitute for butter?
A: You can use olive oil for a lighter version or a plant-based butter if you want a dairy-free option. 🥑
Q: How can I make this dish more filling?
A: Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a small salad, or add more pasta! 🥖🥗