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Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Pasta: A Decadent Weeknight Dinner That’s Ready in 30 Minutes

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If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Pasta. This dish combines the richness of garlic butter shrimp with the brightness of lemon-infused pasta, offering a restaurant-quality meal that’s simple enough for busy weeknights. With a creamy, zesty sauce, perfectly seared shrimp, and al dente linguine or spaghetti, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and ease.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a casual gathering with friends, or simply craving something indulgent yet fast, this dish will not disappoint. It’s rich without being too heavy, fresh without being too light, and bursting with flavor from every forkful.

Who This Recipe Is Perfect For

This recipe is designed for anyone who wants a gourmet-tasting meal without needing chef-level skills. If you:

  • Love quick dinners packed with flavor
  • Enjoy creamy pasta dishes but want something brighter and more refreshing
  • Need a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love
  • Want to impress a date or family with minimal stress in the kitchen

…then Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Pasta is your go-to recipe.

It’s also a fantastic choice if you enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes or are looking to switch things up from traditional tomato-based sauces.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • One-Skillet Sauce – You build the sauce in the same skillet used for shrimp, reducing cleanup.
  • Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Cream, garlic, butter, lemon, and Parmesan come together in a harmonious, crave-worthy way.
  • Customizable – Easy to adapt for different proteins, pasta types, or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta & Sauce

  • 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Garlic press (optional, for easier mincing)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander or strainer
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti or linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it brown). Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. If it becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

4. Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat it in the sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and mix gently until everything is evenly combined.

5. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Tricks for Success

  • Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic is convenient but won’t deliver the same depth of flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery and tough.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: It’s starchy and helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
  • Balance the Lemon: The zest provides aromatic brightness, while the juice adds a fresh tangy finish.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

  • Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
  • Change the Protein: Swap shrimp for seared scallops, grilled chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • Add Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or arugula when you add the pasta to the sauce.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or linguine.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

  • Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
  • Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.

Note: Seafood pasta is always best served fresh, so reheated leftovers may not have the same texture or brightness.

Perfect Pairings

Wine Pairing:

  • White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creaminess and lemony notes.
  • Rosé: A dry rosé complements the garlic and seafood without overwhelming the palate.

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic Bread or Rustic Baguette – Ideal for mopping up extra sauce.
  • Simple Arugula Salad – With lemon vinaigrette to echo the lemon in the pasta.
  • Roasted Asparagus or Zucchini – Adds some earthy green to your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan in advance to save time.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Add a bit more Parmesan to help thicken.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Reserve pasta water is key! Use it to loosen the sauce as needed before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly, and the red pepper flakes are optional. Adjust to your heat preference.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Pasta is the kind of dish that transforms a regular evening into something extraordinary. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a touch of love, you can serve up a dinner that feels special, yet fits effortlessly into your weekly routine.

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