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Garlic Shrimp Pasta Butter

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This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Butter recipe is the ultimate quick yet elegant dinner. Juicy shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in just 35 minutes. Bursting with Italian-inspired flavors and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, this restaurant-worthy dish is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

  • 450 g medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
  • 450 g spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
  • 6–8 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 60 ml unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste
  • Fine sea salt, to taste
  • 240 ml reserved pasta water (use as needed)
  • Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a splash of olive oil and optional herbs, then cook spaghetti until al dente (9–11 minutes). Reserve 240 ml of pasta water, then drain.
  2. While pasta cooks, rinse and pat dry the shrimp.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and starting to curl.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 5–7 minutes until shrimp are opaque.
  5. Drizzle in remaining olive oil. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently.
  6. Season with Italian seasoning, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sea salt to taste.
  7. Add 60 ml of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Add more as needed.
  8. Toss until pasta is well coated and sauce is silky.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Creamy Option: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
  • Add Veggies: Sauté cherry tomatoes with the garlic for added brightness.
  • Cheese Lover’s Tip: Finish with grated parmesan for extra depth.
  • Pasta Swaps: Use linguine or fettuccine in place of spaghetti.
  • Storage Tip: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with added water or broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/garlic-shrimp-pasta-butter/