A simple yet elegant pasta dish bursting with flavor
If you’re looking for a quick, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is exactly what you need. Juicy, pan-seared shrimp are tossed with tender spaghetti in a rich garlic butter sauce, lightly seasoned with herbs and a hint of spice. It’s fresh, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive date-night dinner.
This dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍤 Quick and easy (ready in 30 minutes)
- 🍝 Made with pantry staples
- 🌿 Fresh, vibrant flavors
- 🧄 Garlic butter goodness in every bite
- 💛 Light yet satisfying
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and hot, add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown the garlic). Add red pepper flakes if using.
5. Combine Everything
Return shrimp to the skillet. Add drained spaghetti and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well coated and glossy.
6. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Add white wine (¼ cup) to the sauce for extra depth.
- Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream.
- Add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet with a small splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- A crisp glass of white wine
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is one of those timeless dishes that feels special without requiring complicated steps. It’s light, buttery, garlicky, and incredibly satisfying.