Easy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright citrus flavor, buttery richness, and tender shrimp all tangled up in perfectly cooked pasta, you’re in for a treat. This Easy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is exactly what weeknight dinners were made for—quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The star of the show here is the shrimp, which cooks in just minutes and absorbs the tangy lemon butter sauce beautifully. The butter adds a silky texture, while the garlic and red pepper flakes give just enough kick to keep things interesting without overpowering the dish. The addition of chicken broth adds depth, and fresh parsley brightens everything up at the end.

Using spaghetti as the pasta base ensures you get that classic, comforting pasta experience, but this dish is versatile enough to pair with linguine or fettuccine too. The whole meal comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something impressive without the fuss.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 oz spaghetti: Perfect for soaking up the luscious lemon butter sauce.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The protein powerhouse—choose medium or large shrimp for the best texture.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates that rich, silky sauce base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a savory punch.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Infuses bright, fresh citrus flavor.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Enhances the sauce with a subtle savory note.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle heat that balances the buttery sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds color and a fresh herbal finish.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the shrimp and making the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and shrimp gently.
• Microplane or fine grater: To zest the lemon zest finely.
• Colander: To drain the pasta efficiently.

The Method for Easy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained spaghetti. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta, and serve immediately. A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs beautifully with this dish for a complete meal.

Seasonal Twists

• Add fresh cherry tomatoes in summer for a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
• In spring, toss in some asparagus tips or peas for a fresh, green crunch.
• During fall, a handful of toasted pine nuts adds a lovely nutty flavor and texture.
• Swap parsley for basil in warmer months to give the dish a sweet herbal note.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—overcooking makes them rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Skipping reserved pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the noodles and adds a silky finish.
• Not balancing acidity: Too much lemon juice can overpower the dish. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Using salted butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level better, preventing the dish from becoming too salty.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Easy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce separately a few hours ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet and toss with freshly cooked spaghetti.

Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt. Broth adds flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Is there a substitute for red pepper flakes if I don’t like spice?

Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes or replace them with a pinch of smoked paprika for a different but mild flavor profile.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or pasta alternative. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

Cook This Next

• Classic Shrimp Scampi Lemon Garlic – Another lemony shrimp dish with a garlicky twist.
• Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe – A delightful variation with a buttery garlic sauce.
• Garlic Herb Focaccia Garden Bread – Perfect bread to accompany your pasta dinner.

That’s a Wrap

This Easy Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The bright lemon notes paired with buttery shrimp and tender pasta make it a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe comes together quickly and impressively. Give it a try tonight—you won’t regret it!

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