Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is a delightful pasta dish that seamlessly blends the flavors of the sea with the richness of a buttery sauce. At its core, this dish features succulent shrimp that are sautéed until perfectly tender and tossed with al dente spaghetti. The star of the show is the garlic butter sauce, which infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes. This sauce is typically made by melting butter and sautéing minced garlic until fragrant, creating a rich and creamy coating that clings to both the shrimp and pasta.
The beauty of Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, including shrimp, pasta, garlic, butter, and a touch of seasoning, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Often garnished with fresh herbs like parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, the dish not only looks appealing but also delivers a burst of flavor with each bite. It is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
Beyond its delicious flavor profile, Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit personal preferences. Adding vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus can enhance the nutritional value and add a pop of color. This flexibility, combined with its quick preparation time, has solidified Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti as a staple in many households, appealing to both casual cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike.
What are the benefits of Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti offers a wonderful balance of flavor and nutrition, making it a beneficial addition to any meal plan. One of the main advantages is that it provides a good source of lean protein from the shrimp. Shrimp are low in calories but high in essential nutrients, including selenium, which supports immune health, and vitamin B12, which is vital for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Additionally, shrimp are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
The garlic butter sauce not only adds incredible flavor but also brings health benefits. Garlic has long been known for its medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system, reducing blood pressure, and providing antioxidant effects that help combat free radicals in the body. When combined with butter, it creates a rich, savory sauce that satisfies cravings while still being relatively light when used in moderation. You can also control the amount of butter to keep the dish healthier while still enjoying the delicious flavor it offers.
Another benefit of Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is that it can fulfill a variety of dietary needs. By adding vegetables such as spinach, broccoli or bell peppers, you can increase the fiber and vitamin content, making this dish even more nutritious. In addition, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a very convenient option for those who want a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Welcome To My Kitchen! Let’s Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti!
Step1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the spaghetti aside.
Step2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
Step3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and, if using, pour in 1/4 cup of white wine. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step4: SCombine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the garlic butter sauce.
Step5: Finish and Serve
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve immediately.
The combination of tender shrimp coated in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon creates a delightful burst of flavors that pair perfectly with the al dente spaghetti. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet light, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal with friends. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity – with just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant. Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add a touch of chili flakes for some heat. Cooking is all about making a recipe your own, so enjoy the process and savor every bite!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti is a pasta dish featuring sautéed shrimp coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, served over spaghetti. The shrimp are typically seasoned and cooked until tender, while the garlic butter adds depth and richness. Often garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, this dish balances the savory flavors of garlic and butter with the freshness of shrimp. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a favorite for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Step2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step3: Cook the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. If using, add the red pepper flakes.
Step4: Deglaze the Pan
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step5: Combine Everything
Add the remaining butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Add the cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Step6: Finish with Lemon and Herbs
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the pasta and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss again to combine all the flavors.
Step7: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!
Equipment
Belwares Mixing Bowls with Lids Set
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CAROTE 11pcs Pots and Pans Set
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CAROTE 21pcs Detachable Handle Pots and Pan Set
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CAROTE 22pcs Pots and Pans Set Nonstick
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Home Hero Kitchen Knife Set with Sharpener
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- Freshness Counts: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the amount of garlic in the recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
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Why do my shrimp turn out rubbery?
I might have overcooked the shrimp. To avoid this, I should cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes.
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Why is my pasta too dry?
If the pasta seems dry, I might not have added enough reserved pasta water. Adding a bit more can help create a creamy sauce.
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How can I add more flavor?
If I find the dish lacking in flavor, I can consider adding more garlic, fresh herbs, or a splash of white wine for depth.
