Creamy, comforting, and brimming with flavor, Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the coast right to your kitchen. In this simple yet satisfying recipe, tender shrimp pairs beautifully with a rich garlic butter sauce, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. The best part? Everything cooks together in just one pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor and convenience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 520
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
Why Make This Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
You’ll love this Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for its delicious flavors and simple preparation. The combination of garlic and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings to the pasta and shrimp, making every bite an explosion of taste. Plus, cooking everything in one pot not only saves you time but also ensures that the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavor. Perfect for busy days or unexpectedly hungry guests, this dish is quick, comforting, and utterly delectable.
How to Make Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to become bubbly and fragrant, infusing the air with its rich aroma.
Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir continuously to prevent the garlic from burning and to allow its flavors to develop.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together.
Step 4: Adding the Shrimp
Once the pasta is nearly cooked, add the shrimp to the pot and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. This quick cooking melds the flavors and ensures the shrimp remains juicy.
Step 5: Finishing the Dish
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Serve your Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread on the side. This dish is not only perfect for family dinners but also makes an impressive meal for entertaining friends.
How to Store Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to help loosen the sauce.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Use shrimp that are deveined and peeled to save time.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque in just a few minutes.
- Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, half and half or coconut cream can be a great substitute for a lighter version.
Delicious Variations
- Add Spinach: Throw in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to give your pasta a spicy twist.
- Lemon Zest: For a fresh, zesty flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the Parmesan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
- Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water before adding them to the pot.
- What type of pasta works best?
- Spaghetti or linguine are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just cook the pasta and shrimp right before serving.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
- While you can freeze the dish, the texture of the shrimp may change upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
- How can I make this dish lighter?
- You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter to make a lighter version.
Conclusion
Easy One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delightful dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. From its creamy garlic sauce to perfectly cooked shrimp, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to customize it to fit your taste or pantry supplies! Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that brings smiles to the table. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this one-pot wonder, and happy cooking!
