Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked fettuccine, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to special gatherings. Its standout flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates the shrimp and pasta.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad, this dish suits any meal setting.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from butter, this dish provides a balanced meal without sacrificing taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the parsley garnish and the glossy sauce make this dish visually appealing for guests.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or frying pan
- Colander
- Cooking spoon
- Zester
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic and shrimp, allowing for even cooking and flavor development.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz Fettuccine
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb Shrimp
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
For the Sauce
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
- ¼ Juice of Lemon (Juice from 1/4 of Lemon)
- ¼ Lemon Zest (Zest from 1/4 of Lemon)
- Sea Salt
- Black Pepper
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
In a large pot filled with boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add cooking oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Melt butter in the same skillet. Add shrimp and cook while stirring occasionally until they turn opaque white with some pink, about 4-6 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined and the cheese has melted.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Transfer the drained fettuccine into the skillet. Toss everything together until well mixed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!
This recipe serves about 5 people and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare with an additional 45 minutes for overall cooking time. Enjoy this easy yet impressive dish at your next dinner!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast and creamy dressing that balances the flavors.
Add a Flavorful Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter makes an excellent side that echoes the pasta’s flavor profile.
- Herb Focaccia: Soft, fluffy focaccia topped with fresh herbs adds a delightful touch to your meal.
Serve with Wine
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully with shrimp, enhancing the buttery flavors of the dish.
- Sauvignon Blanc: The crispness of Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness, making it an excellent choice.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
To ensure your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp offers the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook fettuccine until al dente. This ensures it remains firm and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Balance Flavors: Adjust lemon juice and zest according to your taste. A little more acidity can brighten up the dish.
- Melt Cheese Thoroughly: Stir in parmesan cheese until fully melted for a creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
When serving Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, consider complementing it with these delicious side dishes for a well-rounded meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances your plate.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection brings out their natural sweetness and smoky flavor.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs well with seafood.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an elegant appetizer or side dish.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness to balance out the rich pasta dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a classic side that complements many seafood dishes beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, small mistakes can lead to big flavor losses. Here are some common pitfalls and how to dodge them.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking makes them tough. Aim for 4-6 minutes until they’re opaque and pink.
- Not salting the pasta water: This is crucial for flavor. Always salt your boiling water before adding pasta.
- Skipping the lemon zest: The zest adds brightness. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall taste!
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well. Grate fresh Parmesan for a creamier texture.
- Rushing the garlic: Garlic can burn easily; cook it just until fragrant. A minute or two is usually perfect.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delicious dish made with fettuccine, shrimp, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute other pasta types like spaghetti or penne if you prefer a different texture.
How can I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Feel free to add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions provided.
What sides go well with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Consider serving with a fresh salad or garlic bread to complete your meal!
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its creamy texture combined with the bright flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to create your own version!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 5 people 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a culinary delight that marries tender shrimp with fettuccine, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This dish is remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a savory experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Serve it with a fresh salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Fettuccine
- 1 lb Shrimp
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 4 tbsp Butter
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
- Juice from ¼ Lemon
- Zest from ¼ Lemon
- Sea Salt
- Black Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Melt butter in the skillet, then add shrimp and cook until opaque and pink (about 4–6 minutes).
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss in the drained fettuccine and mix thoroughly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
