I live just outside of Asheville, North Carolina—right where the Blue Ridge Mountains cradle the land like an old friend. Ever since I first mastered the One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in my teaching kitchen, it’s become my go-to for easy weeknight dinners. This recipe combines juicy shrimp, al dente pasta, garlic butter sauce, and fresh parsley all in one skillet. In just 20 minutes, you get a restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta without juggling multiple pots. Moreover, this One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta delivers rich flavor, minimal cleanup, and endless smiles. Give it a try tonight for an effortless Seafood Dish Recipes winner!
Table of Contents
The Story & Inspiration Behind One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A Personal Memory
Back in Indiana, I used to stand on a milk crate next to my grandma as she stirred her famous chicken and noodles. Likewise, the rhythm of her hands guiding ingredients taught me that cooking feels like a conversation. Years later, I’m in Asheville, and I still hear her gentle hum whenever I sauté garlic. Therefore, when I created the One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, I thought of her magic touch. I remember the first time I tossed shrimp into hot butter, watching the garlic brown and the aroma fill the barn kitchen. That moment sparked my love for shrimp pasta dishes.
Moreover, I admitted that I once tried Shrimp Pasta Recipes Easy hacks in New York kitchens and burned more garlic than I care to mention. However, I refined the method until it felt as intuitive as grandma’s stirring. Now, every bite of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta feels like a warm hug across time.
Why This Recipe Matters
This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta matters because it merges simplicity with gourmet flavor. First, you get tender shrimp coated in luscious garlic butter. Then, the pasta soaks up every ounce of sauce. As a result, you’ll have one of the best Shrimp Pasta Recipes you’ve ever tried. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual supper clubs, or romantic dinners at home. Furthermore, it holds up beautifully as leftovers—ideal for meal prep.
In addition, this recipe ranks among top Seafood Dish Recipes sites for its balanced texture and flavor. You’ll notice how garlic shrimp pasta elevates ordinary ingredients. Plus, you can adapt it with gluten-free pasta or extra veggies. Overall, this One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta shines whenever you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients You Need for One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 pound |
| Uncooked spaghetti or linguine | 8 ounces |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 cloves |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 2 cups |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped parsley | 2 tablespoons |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |

One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until nearly al dente.
- Push the pasta aside and add the remaining butter and shrimp to the center of the skillet.
- Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
- Stir everything together, add Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
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Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Next, melt 2 tablespoons butter until it foams.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Push garlic to the side. Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
- Remove shrimp to a plate. Then, add remaining butter and broth to the pan. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in pasta. Ensure the noodles are submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta reaches al dente and sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Return shrimp to the pan. Drizzle lemon juice and sprinkle parsley. Toss gently to combine and serve hot.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Smart Swaps & Variations
For a low-carb twist, substitute zucchini noodles for pasta. Likewise, you can swap butter for olive oil if you prefer. Moreover, plant-based cooks can replace shrimp with king oyster mushrooms or soy-based “seafood.” To make it spicier, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne. If you crave extra veggies, toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Additionally, you can use gluten-free pasta without losing any flavor.
Meanwhile, for a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream at the end. On the other hand, swap chicken broth for white wine to deepen the flavor. Overall, this recipe adapts easily to different diets and preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta shines when garnished with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette. For a more complete meal, serve alongside roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans. When you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the sauce. Also, this dish works great in meal-prep bowls paired with steamed veggies.
Finally, impress guests by plating it in individual shallow bowls and topping with shaved Parmesan. In addition, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the garlic shrimp pasta beautifully.
Health Benefits of One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta provides a balanced boost of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. First, shrimp deliver lean protein and essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Second, garlic offers antioxidants that support heart health and immunity. Meanwhile, using whole-grain or gluten-free pasta adds fiber for better digestion.
Moreover, this easy seafood recipe keeps saturated fats moderate when you limit butter. Furthermore, adding veggies increases vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Consequently, this dish fits well into balanced diets and even low-carb or keto plans with minor tweaks. In fact, substituting zucchini noodles cuts carbs while keeping the dish satisfying. Overall, the One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta proves that comfort food can align with wellness goals without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion
In summary, One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta combines speed, flavor, and minimal cleanup. It stands out among Shrimp Pasta Recipes Easy for its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking beginner, or a seasoned home chef, this recipe adapts to your kitchen. Moreover, it reconnects you to the joy of cooking—much like my grandma’s lessons in Indiana.
Give this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta a try tonight and enjoy a gourmet meal with less effort. Share it with friends or tuck into leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. Above all, remember that good food brings people together. So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and let the kitchen teach you patience, creativity, and the thrill of a perfect bite.
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FAQs About One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine all work well. Choose whole-grain or gluten-free options if you prefer added fiber or have dietary restrictions.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta occasionally to release starch and ensure even cooking. Also, make sure the broth covers the pasta completely at the start.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute butter with extra-virgin olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. The flavor remains deliciously garlicky and rich.



