This has been my favorite meal recently – I’ve already cooked it four times this month!

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water well to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Once the pasta is done, drain and set it aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
4. Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the cooked shrimp and toss until everything is well combined.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, then stir in the parmesan cheese. Give everything a final toss and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Why I Keep Coming Back to This Dish

What I love most about this garlic butter shrimp pasta is how consistently delicious it is. It’s so easy to throw together, yet the flavors are rich and satisfying. Whether I’m craving something comforting or looking to make an impression at a dinner party, this dish never lets me down. The combination of shrimp, butter, and garlic is one that’s almost impossible to beat.

I also love that it’s the kind of dish that can be customized based on what’s in the fridge. If I have a bunch of fresh vegetables, I can toss them in for some added color and nutrition. And if I’m in the mood for extra cheese, I can always pile on more parmesan.

Most of all, this recipe is a reminder that the simplest meals are often the best. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours of prep work to create something truly delicious. This shrimp pasta proves that the most satisfying dishes often come from combining just a few good ingredients with a little bit of love.

Tips for Perfecting Your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to watch them closely. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Aim for that perfect pink color—about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
• Use Fresh Lemon: The fresh lemon zest and lemon juice add so much flavor to the dish, giving it a bright, fresh kick that cuts through the richness of the butter. Fresh lemon juice is always preferable to bottled for the best taste.
• Add More Veggies: If you want to add more color and texture to the dish, consider adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the skillet along with the shrimp. Not only does this add a boost of nutrition, but it also enhances the flavor profile.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like your food with a little extra kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a drizzle of hot sauce to the finished dish.

Final Thoughts

This garlic butter shrimp pasta has truly earned its spot as my favorite meal. It’s become my go-to recipe when I want something that’s quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. The rich, buttery sauce combined with the succulent shrimp and tender pasta is irresistible, and I’ve already made it four times this month! If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to make but feels special enough for any occasion, this is it.

Give it a try and I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your household too! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for family and friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.