When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a quick, flavorful pasta dish. This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, zesty, and packed with protein. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home that will impress family and friends.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
• 300g (10 oz) spaghetti or linguine
• 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• ½ cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss well to coat with the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water.
Q2: Can I replace chicken broth?
You can substitute with vegetable broth or even pasta water for a lighter flavor.
Q3: What pasta works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine pair perfectly, but short pasta like penne also works.
Q4: How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that turns any dinner into a gourmet experience. Quick, fresh, and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home! 🍴✨