15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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Everyone needs a go-to quick weeknight dinner, and this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is exactly that! With juicy shrimp, a luscious garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re searching for healthy dinner ideas, a cheap family supper, or a simple dish kids will love, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for healthy dinner ideas and lazy weeknights
• Family- and kid-friendly
• Can be cooked in an air fryer, oven, or on the stovetop using must-have kitchen equipment

Ingredients (Table)

Pro Tip: Use quality kitchen utensils for shrimp prep and a sturdy cutting board.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Pots for boiling pasta
• Large skillet (frying pans)
• Measuring cups and spoons set
• Chef’s knives
• Mixing bowls
• Kitchen utensils
• Colander strainer basket

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain well and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, salt, and crushed red pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining butter to the same skillet; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Add parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and about half the reserved pasta water. Stir until a creamy sauce forms.
5. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to combine, adding extra pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Helpful Tips

• To save time, prep and measure all ingredients before starting.
• Use chef’s knives and a garlic press for quick chopping.
• Substitute spaghetti with linguine or fettuccine if preferred.
• Don’t overcook shrimp remove as soon as they turn pink!
• Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or use freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking for best sear.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The mild garlic butter sauce is a hit with kids. Reduce the red pepper if your family prefers less heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated gently on the stove with a splash of water.

What other equipment can I use?

You can prepare the shrimp using an air fryer or cook pasta in a Thermomix for extra convenience.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 495
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 51g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

Give this quick, delicious shrimp pasta a try and let us know how it turned out! For more tools, visit the equipment list below.

15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Print Recipe

An ultra-fast, flavorful dinner with succulent shrimp tossed in garlic butter and tossed with spaghetti for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal.

• Author: Sara
• Prep Time: 5
• Cook Time: 10
• Total Time: 15
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

8 ounces spaghetti

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper

4 garlic cloves, minced

¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain well and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

2. In a large skillet over medium high heat, melt two tablespoons butter. Add shrimp, salt, and crushed red pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp turns pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter and garlic to the skillet; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water; stir to create a sauce.

5. Add pasta to the skillet and toss with the sauce; return shrimp and toss to combine.

6. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Add extra red pepper flakes for extra heat, or use a mix of fresh herbs for garnish.

Try using the air fryer or oven for shrimp to save time.

Pair with garlic bread or a simple salad for a full meal.

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