15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

When dinner needs to be fast but delicious, this 15-minute garlic butter shrimp pasta recipe delivers perfectly. Juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter combined with tender pasta creates a rich and satisfying meal without hours in the kitchen. Ideal for weeknights or when you want a restaurant-quality dish in minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
5. Toss cooked pasta into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Mix well, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.

Why It Works

This dish balances rich buttery flavors with bright lemon and fresh herbs. The shrimp cooks quickly and stays tender, while the garlic butter sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully. It’s a one-pan meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best texture
• Don’t overcook shrimp; they turn rubbery fast
• Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for extra depth
• Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese

Conclusion
This 15-minute garlic butter shrimp pasta is a go-to recipe for flavorful, quick dinners that don’t compromise on taste. Easy, elegant, and perfect for busy schedules.