Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine

There’s something undeniably irresistible about the combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine recipe is a quick and delicious meal that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. With tender shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, a hint of red pepper flakes for warmth, and a splash of fresh lemon juice, every bite bursts with flavor. If you love dishes that come together effortlessly yet deliver on taste, this is a must-try recipe to add to your dinner rotation.

Why It’s My Go-To

I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both comforting and elegant, and this Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine hits that sweet spot perfectly. It comes together in under 30 minutes, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for convenience. The sauce is rich without being heavy, and the shrimp cook quickly, so you get a tender, juicy bite every time. I also appreciate how versatile it is — you can easily swap in different herbs or add veggies if you like. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends or family with minimal effort. For those evenings when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this dish never disappoints.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 ounces linguine pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Gear Checklist

• Large pot – for boiling the linguine
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook shrimp and make sauce
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Garlic press or sharp knife – for mincing garlic
• Measuring spoons – to get precise amounts of butter and red pepper flakes
• Wooden spoon or tongs – for tossing pasta with sauce

Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining — this starchy water will help loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook another minute or until shrimp are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant — be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked linguine directly into the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Return the shrimp to the pan, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine immediately. Finish each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that perfect savory touch. Enjoy while hot!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Swap linguine for spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to keep it low-carb.
• Use cauliflower rice as a base instead of pasta for a keto-friendly option.
• Incorporate more non-starchy vegetables like asparagus or spinach for added bulk without carbs.
• Ensure the shrimp and butter remain the star protein and fat sources to maintain keto macros.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooked Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Watch the clock — 2-3 minutes per side is usually perfect.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if burnt. Keep your heat moderate and stir constantly once you add the garlic to the butter.
• Soggy Pasta: Don’t overcook your linguine. Al dente texture helps the sauce cling nicely and prevents mushiness.
• Thin Sauce: Use reserved pasta water sparingly to loosen the sauce without making it watery.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine tastes best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back some moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the shrimp and pasta. For meal prep, cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then combine with the sauce just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is Parmesan cheese necessary?

While Parmesan adds a delicious savory finish, you can omit it for a dairy-free version or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement this dish beautifully. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up the sauce.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce for more heat.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Shrimp Scampi With Pasta Recipe — Another garlic shrimp pasta that’s bursting with bright lemon flavor.
• Garlic Butter Steak Pasta — For when you want a hearty, meaty twist on garlic butter pasta dishes.

Wrap-Up

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine is the kind of recipe that feels luxurious yet comes together in a flash. It’s a perfect balance of flavors — rich butter and garlic mingled with tender shrimp and al dente pasta, brightened by fresh lemon and parsley. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a simple, satisfying dinner, this dish delivers every time. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. So grab your skillet, boil that linguine, and get ready to enjoy a plate of pure comfort with a little bit of elegance.

Share on Pinterest