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Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta – Easy, Bright & Delicious

Close-up of lemon garlic shrimp pasta with cracked pepper and parsley

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This lemon butter garlic shrimp pasta is light, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving a restaurant-style dish at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Reserved pasta water (about 1/2 cup)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet.
  • Stir lemon juice and zest into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce heat slightly.
  • Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the pan. Toss to combine, using reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Don’t overcook shrimp they cook quickly and will continue to firm up in the sauce.
  • To make it creamy, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before tossing the pasta.

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