Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Tender shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter tossed with al dente fettuccine, Parmesan, and fresh lemon for a fast, protein-rich dinner. Perfectly balanced with fiber, healthy fats, and vibrant flavor, this dish is ready in less than an hour and ideal for weeknight meals or meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 Large Pan
- 1 colander
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Cooking Spoon
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ lemon juiced
- ¼ lemon zest
- 2 tbsp cooking oil olive or vegetable
- Sea salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the water. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly using a colander and set it aside. For best results, toss the pasta lightly with a little oil to prevent sticking while preparing the shrimp.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. This step builds the flavorful base for the shrimp and sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the same pan and allow it to melt completely, blending with the garlic and oil. Then, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn opaque white with hints of pink. Avoid overcooking—the shrimp should be tender and succulent, not rubbery.
- Add Lemon and Cheese: Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the juice and zest of ¼ lemon. Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir gently until the cheese melts and combines with the butter, garlic, and lemon for a smooth, flavorful sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the drained fettuccine to the pan with the shrimp and sauce.Toss thoroughly with tongs or a spoon until the pasta is fully coated and evenly mixed with the shrimp. Ensure every strand of pasta is glistening with the buttery, garlicky sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Optionally, add extra grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
- Enjoy: Your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is ready! Savor the combination of tender shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep.
Notes
- Always prepare all ingredients before cooking, as this recipe moves quickly.
- Use a combination of butter and oil to prevent the butter from burning.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they should be opaque with a hint of pink and tender.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and adds better flavor than pre-grated varieties.
- Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to taste for balanced, bright flavors.
- Reserve a small cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
