Easy and Delicious 20-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe is your answer! It's packed with savory flavors, made in just 20 minutes, and will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it's a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine works best)
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 9-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Combine Everything: Add the chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the buttery garlic sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

5. Finish the Dish: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to combine everything.

6. Garnish and Serve: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips:

• Customize the Protein: Swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
• Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
• Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Fast and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
• Full of Flavor: A garlicky, buttery sauce pairs perfectly with shrimp and pasta.
• One-Pan Wonder: No need to dirty multiple dishes—just one skillet for everything.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbs: ~45g
• Fat: ~15g

Enjoy this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a dinner that’s delicious, simple, and perfect for busy evenings.