So tasty and easy! Wish I knew about this recipe sooner!

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp
   While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
   Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp with the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and mix well.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
   Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the dish. Give it a final toss, taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Plate the pasta and shrimp, and serve hot. For an extra touch, you can add more Parmesan on top before serving.

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Use Fresh Shrimp: If possible, get fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can skip the red pepper flakes. If you like extra heat, feel free to add more!
• Try Different Pasta: While spaghetti works great, you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or even angel hair pasta.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

1. Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re tired but still want a delicious meal.
2. Minimal Ingredients: It uses ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
3. Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, savory sauce that’s irresistible.
4. Versatile: This dish can be customized with additional veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also swap out the shrimp for chicken or another protein of your choice.

Variations to Try

• Add Vegetables: Throw in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to add more flavor and texture.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a creamy garlic sauce.
• Use Different Proteins: Not a fan of shrimp? Substitute with chicken, scallops, or even a mix of seafood.

Why You’ll Wish You Knew About This Recipe Sooner

This garlic butter shrimp pasta is the kind of dish that feels fancy without the fuss. It tastes like something you’d get at a restaurant, but you can make it at home for a fraction of the cost and effort. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day. Once you’ve made it, you’ll be looking for excuses to cook it again and again.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a tasty, easy, and satisfying meal, this garlic butter shrimp pasta recipe is a game-changer. The simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it out, and you’ll be wondering why you didn’t know about it sooner!