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To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, gather these key ingredients: - 8 oz spaghetti or linguine - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) Each ingredient plays an important role. The pasta forms the base, while the shrimp adds protein and flavor. Butter and garlic create a rich sauce, and lemon brightens the dish. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Adjust the red pepper flakes to control spice. Parmesan cheese is optional, but it can add a nice touch. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 8 oz of spaghetti or linguine. Cook it until it feels firm yet tender, about 8-10 minutes. Always check the package for exact times. When done, save 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This water helps mix the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan. Once hot, add 1 lb of large shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes. They should be opaque and firm. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the rest of the butter. Once it melts, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning the garlic. You want it fragrant but not brown. This step builds a rich flavor for your sauce. Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the drained pasta next. Pour in the reserved pasta water, along with the lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Gently toss everything together. Make sure everything is well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This step is key to making it delicious. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese. To cook shrimp just right, keep an eye on the time. Overcooking shrimp makes them tough. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Then flip them and cook for another 1-2 minutes. They should be bright pink and firm to the touch. For seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way. You can also add lemon juice or zest. This gives shrimp a fresh taste. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Just remember to adjust the amount to match your taste. Choosing the right pasta is key. Spaghetti or linguine work well for this dish. Both types hold the sauce nicely. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for timing. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta should be firm but not hard. Remember to reserve some pasta water. This water helps to create a smooth sauce. It can also adjust the sauce's thickness. To make your garlic butter shrimp pasta even better, think about adding spices. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add depth. You can also try a dash of paprika or oregano for extra flavor. For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine. This adds a nice tang and depth. You can also mix in some grated cheese. Parmesan or pecorino can enhance the dish's taste and texture. {{image_2}} You can boost your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with fresh veggies. Spinach and cherry tomatoes are great choices. Add spinach at the same time you mix in the shrimp. For cherry tomatoes, toss them in just before the garlic. They will soften and add a nice pop of color. If you want a change, use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp. For chicken, cut it into small pieces. Cook it until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. For tofu, use firm tofu and sauté until it’s warm and slightly crispy. Adjust cooking time so your protein cooks well. You can switch the pasta type for variety. Try gluten-free pasta if you need it. Whole grain pasta adds a nutty flavor and is healthier. Different shapes like penne or fettuccine can change the dish's look and taste. Each type holds the sauce differently, so pick your favorite! After a tasty meal, store your leftovers in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers both work well. Make sure to cool the pasta first. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors fresh and safe to eat. To reheat without losing taste, use a skillet. Heat it on low and add a splash of water. Stir gently and watch for steam. This method helps avoid overcooked pasta. You can also use the microwave, but do it in short bursts. Stir between each burst to keep the pasta moist. If you want to freeze it, cool the pasta first. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to eat frozen pasta within three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently, adding a bit of water to keep it from drying out. This keeps the flavors intact and makes it just as delicious! It takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You will spend 10 minutes prepping and 15 minutes cooking. This makes it a quick and easy meal for busy nights. Yes, you can make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp, then store them separately. Keep them in airtight containers in the fridge. This dish is great for meal prep! Store the pasta and shrimp in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them gently. Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just thaw them first. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold water. This saves time and keeps the dish fresh. I suggest a simple side salad with mixed greens. Garlic bread pairs nicely too. For drinks, a chilled white wine or lemonade can complement the dish well. You now have all the tools to make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. We covered essential ingredients, like shrimp and garlic. The step-by-step instructions help ensure that you cook the shrimp and pasta perfectly. I included tips to enhance your dish and variations for added fun. Remember, storing and reheating your leftovers is key for future meals. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty dish that impresses everyone. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor each bite!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with this easy recipe! Perfectly cooked pasta and juicy shrimp come together in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with zesty lemon and fresh parsley. In just 25 minutes, you can create a dish that impresses any dinner guest. Ready to elevate your mealtime? Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy a tasty dinner that’s sure to satisfy!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until pink. Flip shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

        Combine the Ingredients: Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Pour in the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together gently until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4