Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine

Name: Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g linguine pasta; 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Ideas

I can hardly contain my excitement when I think about making Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine. The combination of tender shrimp and rich garlic butter sauce brings a delightful burst of flavor that never fails to impress my family and friends. Quick to prepare, this dish is a go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With each twirl of the linguine, you’ll find a heavenly taste of the sea, balanced by the savory depth of garlic and butter. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your home kitchen.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:09:39.128Z

Making Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine is a culinary journey that I absolutely love embarking on. The key to this dish is using high-quality shrimp and fresh garlic, which truly elevates the flavors. I suggest lightly sautéing the garlic until just golden to avoid bitterness, which can completely change the dish. Each bite is a celebration of deliciousness, and I always find myself going back for seconds.

In trying to perfect this recipe, I learned that the timing of adding the shrimp is crucial. They cook quickly, so I like to add them just before the pasta is done to ensure they remain juicy and tender. This dish is not just quick to whip up; it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether it's a family meal or dinner with friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp enveloped in buttery garlic goodness
Quick enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests
Perfect balance of flavors with a hint of spice from red pepper flakes

The Importance of Quality Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for your Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine, freshness is key. Opt for large shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild, briny smell. Avoid any that feel mushy or have an overpowering fishy odor. If possible, go for shrimp that are sustainably sourced or wild-caught, as they typically have better flavor and texture. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, high-quality frozen shrimp are a great alternative—just ensure they are properly thawed before cooking to achieve that perfect texture.

Peeled and deveined shrimp cook quickly, making them the perfect protein for this dish. Keep an eye on them as they cook; overcooking leads to a rubbery texture. Aim for a bright pink color and an opaque center to indicate they are done. Remove them from heat as soon as they reach this point to keep them moist and tender.

Perfecting Your Garlic Butter Sauce

Garlic is the cornerstone of the sauce in this recipe. To achieve the best flavor, use fresh garlic, finely minced. Sauté it only until fragrant—a minute or so—since burnt garlic turns bitter and can spoil the sauce. The key is to infuse the butter without letting the garlic brown too much. You want a beautiful, golden hue in the garlic while it releases its aromatic oils into the butter.

Once the shrimp are added to the garlic butter, they release their natural sweetness, which complements the savory notes of the garlic. Combining the linguine with a splash of reserved pasta water creates a glossy sauce that clings to the pasta nicely. Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of butter to suit your taste; a bit more can enhance creaminess, while a little less keeps things lighter. Just make sure to balance with the lemon juice and seasoning for a well-rounded flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the classic Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine is delightful on its own, feel free to get creative with the dish! Consider adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to bring in additional flavors and textures. Sauté them in the garlic butter before adding the shrimp for a one-pan wonder that includes your greens. Alternatively, for a heartier version, toss in a few capers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

For those looking to lighten the dish for dietary reasons, swapping the pasta for a zucchini noodle or whole wheat linguine can offer a healthier profile without sacrificing too much of the original dish’s integrity. To add a touch of sophistication, try a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or almonds on top for extra crunch. Storing leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, and reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine:

Ingredients

400g linguine pasta
500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Once you have these ingredients, you're ready to cook up a flavorful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Combine with Pasta

Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce. Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Serve

Plate the linguine, garnishing with additional parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delightful meal!

Serve hot for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter while cooking the shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when making this dish is cooking the shrimp too long. As they only take a few minutes to cook, be sure to time yourself. Use a timer if necessary to prevent overcooking. Remember, the residual heat will continue to cook them slightly after removing from the heat, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking, as they will remain tender.

Another pitfall can be under-seasoning the dish. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go! Adding salt, pepper, and lemon juice at key stages enhances the dish's flavor profile significantly. If you find the sauce too rich, a splash of white wine before adding the linguine can brighten the taste and balance it beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Shrimp Garlic Butter Linguine is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep certain elements ahead of time. The shrimp can be marinated in olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice for up to an hour before cooking. This not only enhances their flavor but also adds tenderness. Cooked linguine can be stored separately; just remember to toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or broth to help revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it may overcook the shrimp and make them tough.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure you thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for linguine?

Fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice works well.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and cook right before serving.