If you’ve been craving a fancy dinner but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this is just what you need. Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy and simple to make yet luxurious enough to impress anyone. It’s also perfect for date nights, cozy dinners, or just treating yourself. This simple recipe combines juicy, garlicky shrimp with perfectly buttery pasta, all whipped up in under 30 minutes. Yes, it’s that simple!

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a pasta pro, this guide will cover all the steps to create the ultimate Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to make this dish. Most of these items are pantry staples!

For the Pasta:

• 10 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta—linguine works beautifully too)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp Sauce:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined—fresh or frozen works)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4-5 garlic cloves (minced—don’t skimp on the garlic, it’s the star!)

• ½ cup dry white wine (optional but highly recommended for that rich flavor)

• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to your spice tolerance level)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy twist)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for that pop of freshness)

 Pro Tip: If you want an even more indulgent dish, swap out the olive oil for more butter or drizzle a little truffle oil at the end.

Step-by-Step Directions to Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Heaven

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, cook your pasta!

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook until al dente (check those pasta package instructions—it’s normally around 8-10 minutes).

• Before draining, save one cup of pasta water. This will come in handy to create that silky sauce later.

Step 2: Prep the Shrimp

While the pasta is bubbling away…

• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and slightly curled. Don’t overcook! Nobody likes rubbery shrimp.

• Remove the shrimp and set them aside—we’ll bring them back in shortly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Now for the magic sauce!

• Using the same pan, lower the heat to medium. Melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant—you’ll smell it!

• (Optional) Pour in the white wine and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This enhances the sauce with a rich, subtle tang.

• Stir in the red chili flakes for a hint of heat.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Here comes the fun part!

• Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss it together so the pasta gets coated evenly.

• Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water (use only what’s needed) to loosen up the sauce and ensure everything is perfectly glossy and coated.

• Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and give it a final mix.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Plate up the pasta, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and maybe an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot. 😍

Additional Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Success

• Shrimp Selection: Fresh works best, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

• Pasta Alternatives: Not a spaghetti fan? Try fettuccine, angel hair pasta, or even penne to switch it up.

• Wine Substitute: If you’d rather skip the wine, swap it out with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for added zing.

• Bulk It Up: Add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and variety.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s buttery, garlicky, and slightly spicy, with just the right amount of richness. Plus, it’s super versatile—perfect for health-conscious eaters looking for a light dish or pasta lovers craving decadence.

Oh, and did we mention the leftovers are just as good the next day? You just need to reheat the pasta with a splash of water or olive oil, and you’re good to go.

Give It a Try Tonight!

Feeling inspired to whip this up? Trust us, one bite of this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a significant other, or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.