🍤 Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

✨ Description

Juicy, pan-seared shrimp tossed with spaghetti in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with fresh parsley and a hint of chili flakes. Simple, elegant, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.

3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.

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Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add shrimp in a single layer.

4. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

5. Remove shrimp and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt remaining butter.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

3. Add red pepper flakes if using.

4. Pour in reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet.

2. Toss well to coat in the garlic butter sauce.

3. Return shrimp to the pan and mix gently.

4. Add lemon juice and Parmesan if desired.

5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

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💡 Pro Tips

• Do not overcook shrimp — they cook very quickly.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.

• Add a splash of white wine before pasta water for extra depth.

• For creamier pasta, stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.

• Pair with chilled white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc).

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🥶 Storage

• Refrigerate up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently with a splash of water or butter.