One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish celebrates the delightful harmony of succulent shrimp, flavorful garlic, and creamy sauce, all blended seamlessly with pasta—all in just one pot! I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to bring smiles and satisfied appetites. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to elevate your weekend lunch, this recipe has you covered.
What Makes This Dish Special
This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with rich flavors that appeal to everyone. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or a romantic date night, this recipe shines in its versatility. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t break the bank, and the convenience of a single pot means less cleanup for you!
“This pasta is everything I never knew I needed—a perfect balance of garlic, shrimp, and cream that just dances on the palate. It’s become a staple in my home!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Crafting this dish is a breeze! You’ll begin by cooking your pasta and then sautéing the shrimp until they’re perfectly cooked. Next, you’ll build a creamy garlic sauce right in the same pot. Once it thickens, you’ll toss everything together for a gloriously cohesive dish. Get ready to satisfy your taste buds with this effortless culinary adventure!
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delightful pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Note: Feel free to swap the shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a delightful variation!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove them from the pot and set aside.
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In that same pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being cautious to avoid burning the garlic.
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Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning and season it to your liking with salt and pepper.
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Add the drained pasta to the pot and toss everything together. Allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the pot and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
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Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon wedges, if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This pasta dish is incredible as it is, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience. Consider pairing it with a glass of white wine, like a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the dish’s savory notes.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To properly store any leftovers of this delicious pasta, follow these simple tips:
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheating it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave is best.
- For long-term storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest just before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. They should only need a few minutes to turn a beautiful pink and opaque.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Creative Twists
- Experiment with different herbs by adding a touch of dill or thyme to make it uniquely yours.
- For a spicy version, include diced tomatoes with green chilies or additional red pepper flakes.
- Make it a one-pot wonder using zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb alternative.
Common Questions
How long does the preparation and cooking take?
The total time for making One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
Can I substitute the shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken breast, scallops, or even seasonal vegetables for vegetarian options.
Is this dish safe to reheat?
Yes, as long as you store it properly in an airtight container, reheating it should be safe. Just ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheated.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensuring that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
Now you’re all set to create this scrumptious One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta at home. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove them from the pot and set aside.
- In that same pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being cautious to avoid burning the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning and season it to your liking with salt and pepper.
- Add the drained pasta to the pot and toss everything together. Allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the pot and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon wedges, if desired.
