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Quick Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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A rich, creamy, and savory shrimp pasta dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy date night at home, this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large or extra-large shrimp, thawed and patted dry
  • 1 lb fettuccine or linguine pasta
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Reserved pasta water as needed

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve one cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tbsp butter and let it melt and foam slightly. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter if needed, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss vigorously to coat every strand.
  8. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to distribute evenly. Cook for another minute to heat through.
  9. Remove from heat. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir in chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure shrimp are completely dry before searing to prevent steaming. Use fresh garlic rather than jarred for best flavor. Do not overcook shrimp or they will become rubbery. Save pasta water to help emulsify the sauce. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp pasta, creamy garlic butter, quick dinner, weeknight meals, easy pasta, date night dinner, 15 minute meals

Find it online: https://islatable.com/quick-creamy-garlic-butter-shrimp-pasta-15-min-easy-dinner/