Hey, flavor cravers! Need a dinner that’s fast, fancy, and full of zing? This Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp Pasta is your answer. Juicy shrimp, a luscious garlic butter sauce, and a bright lemon kick come together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy nights when you still want something special. Let’s dive into this plate of perfection!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the wine (or broth), lemon zest, and lemon juice, letting it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss It Together: Add the pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it needs loosening. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and stir until melty.
- Serve: Plate it up, garnish with parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy, and enjoy!
Why It’s a Dinner Hit
This dish is all about big flavors with minimal effort—garlic and lemon make the shrimp sing, while the buttery sauce coats every strand of pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet without the fuss!
