Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: A One-Pot Wonder You'll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces long pasta (linguine or fettuccine); 1 pound shrimp (fresh or frozen, thawed and dried); 2-3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream); 1/2 cup white wine (optional); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

The smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen is one of life’s simple joys, don’t you think? That’s exactly what inspired me to whip up this One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce envelops al dente pasta, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is quick to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe ensures a delightful, restaurant-worthy meal without the fuss—making it an instant crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re entertaining guests or just need a tasty escape from fast food, this one-pot wonder will quickly become a favorite. Curious about how to make this mouthwatering dish in just one pot? Let’s dive in!

Why is One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta So Special?

Simplicity at its Finest: With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze—perfect for busy cooks.
Irresistible Flavor: The aromatic blend of garlic and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates every bite.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish caters to both your schedule and cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for dinners, gatherings, or date nights; it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile Choices: Feel free to replace shrimp with scallops or add veggies; this recipe can adapt to your preferences!

So, if you are looking for a delicious meal that fits right into your routine, give this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta a try and don’t forget to check out my Fall Harvest Pasta for a seasonal spin and Garlic Sauce Potatoes to complete your meal!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for this delectable dish.

For the Pasta

Pasta – Long varieties like linguine or fettuccine work best; they soak in the creamy sauce beautifully.

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Fresh or frozen works; just remember to thaw and dry thoroughly for the best results.

For the Sauce

Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor; the more, the merrier in this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!
Butter – Adds richness; swap for olive oil if you’re going dairy-free.
Heavy Cream – Brings the creamy texture; full-fat coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
White Wine (optional) – Adds depth; chicken broth or lemon juice can also brighten the flavors if wine isn’t on hand.
Parmesan Cheese – Provides umami and helps thicken the sauce; nutritional yeast is perfect for a dairy-free option.

For Garnishing

Parsley – Fresh parsley brightens the dish’s appearance and adds a hint of freshness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Shrimp
Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add your thawed and dried shrimp, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside on a plate, leaving the flavorful residue behind.

Step 2: Cook Garlic
In the same pot, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves and sauté them for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant and golden. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent burning, as this will enhance the aroma for your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and set the stage for the luscious sauce to come.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, pour in 8 ounces of long pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, along with 3 cups of broth and 1/2 cup of white wine (or chicken broth). Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated, and then bring the mixture to a lively boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the pasta and stir occasionally, until the noodles are al dente and have absorbed most of the liquid, creating a luxurious base for your creamy sauce.

Step 5: Finish Sauce
After the pasta is cooked, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to achieve a creamy consistency. Add the sautéed shrimp back to the pot, heating everything through for an additional minute and ensuring that the shrimp is warmed and coated in the silky sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To complete your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, serve it immediately in warm bowls or plates. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired, bringing a beautiful touch of color and flavor to this fabulous one-pot dish.

Make Ahead Options

One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is ideal for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prep the shrimp by thawing and cleaning them up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, mince the garlic and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for an easy grab when it’s time to cook. If you want to meal prep further, you can cook the pasta ahead and combine it with the sauce, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to keep the texture just right. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal last-minute effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Looking to add your personal touch to this creamy dish? With just a few tweaks, you can create a wonderful new experience!

Seafood Swap: Use scallops, mussels, or clams instead of shrimp. Just adjust cooking times based on the seafood’s size.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a delightful kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes during the simmering stage for added color and nutrients while maintaining a vibrant taste.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream, ensuring a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.
Pasta Variety: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or spaghetti; just keep an eye on cooking times.
Herbal Infusion: For a fragrant twist, add fresh basil or thyme along with the parsley; these herbs elevate the dish’s aroma and taste dramatically.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic for a bolder flavor—after all, who can resist more garlic in Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Decadent Flavor: A splash of lemon juice and zest just before serving will brighten and elevate the overall flavor profile!

And while you’re here, if you’re in the mood for a seasonal twist, don’t miss out on my delightful Fall Harvest Pasta or pair this dish alongside my savory Garlic Sauce Potatoes for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and flavor of your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta while preventing spoilage.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, portion the pasta after it has cooled completely and transfer it to freezer-safe bags. It can last up to 2 months, but note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure that your storage containers are well-sealed to keep the flavors fresh and to avoid freezer burn, especially for the shrimp and pasta combination.

What to Serve with One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

The rich blend of garlic and cream in your pasta calls for sides that balance and elevate this hearty, savory delight.

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, it’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce while complementing the garlic flavors of your dish.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the shrimp pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant, seasoned veggies bring a medley of textures and flavors, making each bite feel even more fulfilling.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender, lightly seasoned asparagus introduces a bright note and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall experience of your meal.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio beautifully offsets the creamy elements, making every bite and sip a glorious pairing.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and zesty option cleanses the palate after the richness of the Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, leaving you refreshed.
Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs can add a nutty texture and complements the dish without overpowering it.
Caprese Skewers: Juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a burst of freshness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors of the pasta.
Crusty Baguette: Great for dipping, it’s an inviting side that helps balance the dish while adding a satisfying crunch to each meal.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Perfect Shrimp: Watch the cooking time closely; overcooked shrimp become rubbery. They should turn pink, firm, and juicy for optimal flavor and texture.
Sauce Thickness: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, simmer it uncovered to allow for more liquid evaporation. You can also add a cornstarch slurry for a quick fix.
Pasta Choice: For the best results, opt for long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine—they tend to absorb the garlic butter sauce beautifully and provide a delightful bite.
Prep Ahead: To streamline your cooking experience, peel your shrimp and mince the garlic ahead of time. This will save you valuable moments when you’re ready to whip up this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to get creative! If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh veggies like spinach for added nutrition.

One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh is ideal, but frozen shrimp can work wonderfully too—just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking!

How should I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your creamy sauce and shrimp fresh and delicious. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with a splash of broth to revive its creaminess.

What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If you find your sauce is too thin, continue simmering it uncovered to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, stir this into the sauce, and let it cook for another minute to thicken beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with a dairy allergy, you can easily make this dish dairy-free by swapping the butter for olive oil and using full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Moreover, ensure your shrimp is sourced sustainably, if that aligns with your dietary preferences.