Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe for Dinner

Posted on November 7, 2025

garlic butter shrimp pasta - featured image

Introduction

The sizzle of garlic hitting a hot buttery pan, the aroma of shrimp getting perfectly seared, and the swirl of angel hair pasta coated in a luscious, garlicky butter sauce—it’s pure comfort in a bowl. This Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta recipe is everything you want in a dinner: quick, flavorful, and elegant enough to impress guests. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes.

I’ll admit, I first made this dish out of necessity. I was staring at a bag of frozen shrimp in my freezer and a pantry stocked with pasta, wondering what I could whip up for dinner after a long day. A little experimentation with garlic, butter, and a splash of lemon juice turned into a recipe I now make weekly. It’s indulgent without being heavy, and my family absolutely loves it.

If you’re a seafood fan, you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe. It’s got all the good stuff—garlic, butter, tender shrimp, and pasta that’s light as air. Plus, it’s versatile; you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Let me show you how to make this easy yet unforgettable dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a fast yet satisfying meal.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of simple, everyday pantry staples to pull this together.
Restaurant-Worthy: It’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party and will have your guests asking for the recipe.
Incredible Flavor: Garlic butter sauce paired with succulent shrimp and delicate angel hair pasta is a match made in culinary heaven.
Versatile: You can easily switch up the ingredients to make it your own—use whole wheat pasta, add veggies, or adjust the spice level.

This isn’t just another shrimp pasta recipe—it’s the kind of dish that makes you linger at the table, savoring every bite. It’s comfort food that feels indulgent and special while still being easy enough for anyone to make. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll have it on repeat.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create magic. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Angel Hair Pasta: Light and delicate, this pasta cooks in just 3-4 minutes and pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined. Medium-sized shrimp work best, but go for jumbo if you want to impress!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must—it’s the star of the show here.
Olive Oil: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for a touch of brightness that enhances the flavor of the shrimp.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the shrimp and balancing the flavors.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but highly recommended for that extra savory finish.

These ingredients are easy to find and can be adjusted based on preferences. For example, swap angel hair pasta for spaghetti or linguine, or use a dairy-free butter alternative for a lactose-free version.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to make this recipe, but a few basics will make the process seamless:

Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
Large Skillet: A non-stick or stainless steel skillet works best for cooking the shrimp and sauce.
Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Microplane Grater: Handy for grating fresh parmesan cheese and zesting lemon.
Colander: For draining the pasta.

If you don’t have a large skillet, you can use a medium-sized saucepan for the sauce and shrimp. Just be careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Preparation Method

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce the heat to low and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Stir in the reserved pasta water and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, then toss the cooked pasta in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately with a slice of crusty bread and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs the most flavor. Pre-minced garlic or garlic powder won’t have the same punch.
Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water! It’s the secret to a silky, cohesive sauce.
Adjust the Spice: Want more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Work Quickly: This recipe comes together fast, so make sure all your ingredients are prepped before you start cooking.

Variations & Adaptations

Low-Carb Option: Swap the angel hair pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to make this dish keto-friendly.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for a veggie-packed alternative.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrients and color.
Custom Proteins: Not a shrimp fan? Try chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a different spin.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served immediately while the pasta is hot and the shrimp are juicy. Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving to keep the shrimp tender.

If you want to make this ahead of time, cook the pasta and shrimp separately and store them separately. Combine everything just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta is not just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients:

Shrimp: A great source of lean protein, rich in selenium and vitamin B12.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats that are great for heart health.
Parsley: Adds a dose of vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants.

This dish is relatively light and can be adjusted for various dietary needs, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Give it a try and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Add your favorite veggies, play with the spice level, or try new proteins. I love making this dish for my family because it’s a guaranteed success every time, and I know you’ll feel the same.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment below, share your variations, or tag me on social media to show off your creation. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and keep the shrimp tender.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free butter alternative, and skip the parmesan cheese or use a vegan substitute.

What other types of pasta can I use?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great alternatives to angel hair pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the garlic butter sauce and shrimp beautifully.

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