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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 1 review

A quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta that combines tender shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with al dente pasta, fresh arugula, and Parmesan cheese for a perfect weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti

Shrimp

  • 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Sauce and Garnish

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups baby arugula or spinach
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Season the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Spices: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring frequently until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir occasionally as the shrimp cook until they turn pink and are opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  5. Combine Pasta and Greens: Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the cooked pasta, baby arugula (or spinach), and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the arugula begins to wilt, about 2 minutes.
  6. Finish with Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to combine and warm through.
  7. Serve: Plate the pasta and shrimp immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
  • Substitute baby spinach for arugula if desired.
  • For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream.
  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian