When I say this is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta I truly mean it because you would never guess how fast it comes together yet it tastes like something you would order at a cozy restaurant and the shrimp turn tender and buttery while the pasta gets coated in glossy garlic sauce that feels indulgent and comforting at the same time.

I love shrimp pasta dishes but making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta on the stovetop creates bold flavor juicy shrimp and silky noodles that cling to every drop of sauce so it becomes one of those meals I make again whenever I want something impressive yet easy and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

Here is what I use for this recipe and each ingredient has a clear purpose in building flavor and texture.

Shrimp These cook quickly and stay juicy while soaking up garlic butter flavor.
Pasta This forms the base and carries the sauce beautifully.
Butter This creates richness and the signature silky sauce.
Olive oil This helps prevent the butter from burning.
Garlic This brings bold aromatic flavor to the dish.
Red pepper flakes These add gentle heat and balance the richness.
Cherry tomatoes These add freshness and light acidity.
Fresh parsley This brightens the dish at the end.
Parmesan cheese This adds savory depth and finish.
Salt and black pepper These enhance all flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet This allows the shrimp and pasta to cook evenly together.
Pasta pot This is used to boil the pasta properly.
Tongs These help toss pasta with sauce gently.
Wooden spoon This is ideal for stirring garlic butter without scratching the pan.
Colander This drains pasta efficiently.
Measuring cups and spoons These keep the seasoning balanced.

Instructions

Step 1 Cook the Pasta

I start by boiling the pasta in well salted water until just al dente then I reserve some pasta water before draining because it helps loosen the sauce later.

Step 2 Prepare the Shrimp

I pat the shrimp dry and season them lightly with salt and black pepper because dry shrimp sear better and stay juicy.

Step 3 Sauté the Shrimp

I heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet then add the shrimp in a single layer and cook briefly on each side until pink and just cooked through then I remove them to avoid overcooking.

Step 4 Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet I add a little more butter and sauté garlic with red pepper flakes just until fragrant which creates the base of the sauce without burning the garlic.

Step 5 Combine Everything

I return the shrimp to the skillet then add cooked pasta cherry tomatoes and a splash of reserved pasta water and toss everything together until glossy and well coated.

Step 6 Finish and Serve

I finish with fresh parsley and grated parmesan then taste and adjust seasoning before serving immediately.

Tips

From my experience the key to perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is not overcooking the shrimp because they turn rubbery quickly and I always recommend cooking them separately and adding them back at the end. I also like using freshly grated parmesan because it melts better and adds more flavor and if the sauce feels tight I simply add a little more pasta water to loosen it.

Ways to Serve

I love serving Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta straight from the skillet with extra parmesan and fresh herbs because it looks rustic and inviting and for a complete meal I pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. When entertaining guests I sometimes add a side of garlic bread to soak up the buttery sauce which always gets rave reactions.

Storage Instructions

If there are leftovers I store Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator and it keeps well for up to two days. When reheating I use low heat on the stovetop with a splash of water or butter because this helps revive the sauce and keeps the shrimp tender instead of dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Yes I thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for best texture.

What pasta works best for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

I prefer long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine because they hold the sauce well.

Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta spicy?

Yes I add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder for more heat.

Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta good for meal prep?

It works best fresh but leftovers can be enjoyed within a day or two.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta a try because it is quick flavorful and always feels special even on busy nights. Save this recipe and come back to it whenever you need an easy win in the kitchen and feel free to share how it turned out for you.

Happy Cooking!