Name: Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta: Quick, Gourmet Comfort at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Linguine or Spaghetti (Feel free to substitute with penne or fettuccine.); 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined) (Use fresh for the best results or thawed frozen.); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Opt for high-quality butter.); 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice (Fresh is best.); 3 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh minced preferred.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1/2 cup White Wine or Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Can replace with basil.); Salt & Pepper (Adjust to taste.)

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With the busy whirl of life, finding time for a delicious, homemade meal can feel like a mini crisis. Enter my 20-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta—your new go-to for those hectic weeknights when you crave gourmet flavors but need something quick and easy to whip up. This dish elevates simple ingredients like succulent shrimp and fresh lemon juice into a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen. Not only is it a total crowd-pleaser, but it also brings a refreshing twist to your dinner routine, transforming ordinary pasta into an extraordinary feast. Are you ready to savor every bite of this sumptuous creation? Let’s get cooking!

Why Choose Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Quick and Easy: This recipe delivers gourmet flavor in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.

Fresh Ingredients: Bright lemon juice and high-quality butter create a fresh and rich flavor profile.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for impressing guests or satisfying family cravings with its irresistible taste.

Versatile Options: Swap pasta shapes or protein to customize your dish—try it with scallops or your favorite seasonal veggies!

Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead for quick dinners; just reheat and enjoy like it’s freshly made.

If you’re looking for more tantalizing seafood options, check out my Garlic Shrimp Over for another delicious meal!

Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Ingredients

• Discover all the essential elements for crafting this gourmet delight!

For the Pasta

Linguine or Spaghetti – The perfect foundation for your dish; feel free to substitute with penne or fettuccine for a fun twist.

For the Shrimp

Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Provides that delightful seafood flavor; use fresh for the best results, but thawed frozen is a handy alternative.

For the Sauce

Unsalted Butter – The secret to a rich, creamy sauce; opt for high-quality butter to elevate your dish’s taste.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brings bright acidity to balance the richness; always go for fresh over bottled for maximum flavor.
Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic goodness; fresh minced garlic will enhance your dish beautifully.
Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the shrimp; a touch of olive oil adds a fruity depth to the dish.
White Wine or Chicken Broth – Introduces depth to the sauce; vegetable broth works if you’re keeping it vegetarian.

For the Garnish

Fresh Parsley (chopped) – A finishing touch that adds brightness and color; try replacing with basil for a new flavor experience.
Salt & Pepper – Key seasonings that elevate the flavor; adjust them to suit your taste preferences.

Perfect for those nights when you desire a delicious, fulfilling homemade meal without the fuss, this Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is ready to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, cooking them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, allowing the drippings to remain for the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic, stirring it gently for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can alter the flavor of your Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s time for the next step.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in ½ cup of white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2 minutes, reducing it slightly while enhancing the flavors. The sauce will become aromatic, complementing the shrimp beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate the Butter and Lemon
Lower the heat and whisk in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Follow by adding 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and a handful of chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should now be creamy and luscious, ready to envelop the pasta.

Step 6: Combine Everything
Toss the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Add a bit of reserved pasta water, about ¼ cup, stirring everything together until well combined and coated. The heat should be low enough to keep everything warm without cooking further. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with extra pasta water as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once combined, serve the Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnishing with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. You can also add an extra sprinkle of lemon zest if you desire a higher citrus intensity. This quick and delightful dish is now ready to impress your family and friends!

Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dish by indulging in these delightful variations!

Pasta Swap: Try using penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta for a different texture and taste. Each shape brings its own character to this dish.
Vegetable Add-ins: Add seasoned asparagus or roasted broccoli for a burst of color and nutrition, making your meal even more wholesome and satisfying.
Seafood Upgrade: Substitute shrimp for scallops or fresh crab for a luxurious twist that elevates your dish to seafood heaven.
Garlic Lovers Delight: Increase the minced garlic to 4 cloves for a more robust flavor profile that will awaken your taste buds with every bite.
Creamy Touch: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for an extra rich and velvety texture, perfect for a special occasion!
Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a dash of heat, enhancing the flavor profile and making your flavor experience more dynamic.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or dill instead of parsley for a unique twist that introduces new aromatic experiences.
Zesty Kick: Squeeze in more fresh lemon juice or zest for a citrusy lift that brightens the entire dish, making it even more refreshing.

For those craving more delightful seafood recipes, check out my Spinach Shrimp Pasta or whip up a delicious Shrimp Roll Summer for a perfect taste of summer!

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta dishes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prep the garlic, butter, and lemon sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can clean and devein the shrimp ahead of time, keeping them sealed in the fridge for up to 2 days. This way, when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat while cooking the pasta. Toss everything together with the shrimp, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a fresh, creamy coating that tastes just as delightful as when first made.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftover Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s properly sealed to maintain flavor and prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating from frozen is best achieved by defrosting overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring shrimp flavors remain vibrant.

Expert Tips for Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh lemon juice and garlic to enhance the flavors of your Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta. Bottled juice lacks vibrancy.
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Watch the shrimp closely while cooking; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Cook until just pink and opaque for the best result.
Pasta Water is Key: Reserve your starchy pasta water! This helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta.
Adjust to Taste: Don’t forget to season! Taste your sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed to maximize flavor.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to swap in different pasta shapes or proteins—doing so keeps dinner exciting and tailored to your preferences.
Quick Serving Tips: Serve immediately for the best experience! The Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta tastes best fresh, right out of the skillet.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that beautifully complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, adding a comforting crunch to every bite.
Seasonal Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Add sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for extra color.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted, asparagus brings earthy flavors and a pleasant crunch that pairs wonderfully with tender shrimp.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the dish’s flavors with its crisp acidity, making every sip a crisp complement to the buttery sauce.
Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing dessert option, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and mirrors the dish’s bright citrus notes—an elegant finish to your meal!
Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli adds a vibrant green color and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the shrimp pasta, making for a well-rounded dish.

Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp is ideal for the best flavor and texture. If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them thoroughly by placing them in the refrigerator for several hours or running them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes.

How long can I store leftover Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?
You can store any leftover Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep the flavors intact and prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it! Place the pasta in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 2 months. For the best results, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Why is my shrimp rubbery after cooking?
Very! Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. It’s a delicate protein, so watch it closely!

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, which is available in various shapes like penne or fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best outcome.

What’s a good alternative for white wine in the sauce?
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute. It adds depth and flavor without the wine, making your Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta just as delicious. Alternatively, you could use chicken broth if that suits your needs.