Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti
Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines tender, juicy shrimp with perfectly cooked spaghetti in a rich garlic butter sauce. Infused with herbs, black pepper, and a touch of seasoning, this elegant dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It comes together in under 30 minutes while delivering restaurant-quality flavor.
Ingredients
500 g spaghetti
500 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon crushed black pepper
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instruction
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Season the shrimp with paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice and a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the buttery garlic sauce.
Return the shrimp to the pan and gently mix everything together.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.
Method
Cook the pasta until just tender while preparing the shrimp separately to prevent overcooking. Creating the garlic butter sauce after removing the shrimp allows the garlic to stay aromatic without burning. Tossing the pasta in the sauce before adding the shrimp ensures every strand is coated with flavor. A little reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti.
Benifits
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein.
Garlic contains natural antioxidants and beneficial compounds.
Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats.
Spaghetti offers energy-rich carbohydrates.
Parsley adds vitamins and fresh flavor.
This meal is filling, balanced, and quick to prepare.
Nutrition
Approximate per serving
Calories: 520
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 680 mg
Tips
Do not overcook the shrimp, as they become rubbery very quickly.
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
Reserve some pasta water before draining to help emulsify the sauce.
Add extra lemon juice for a brighter, fresher taste.
For a spicy version, increase the red pepper flakes.
Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is a simple yet elegant recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. The combination of succulent shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a comforting favorite for seafood lovers. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.