Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright, buttery flavors and just the right hint of garlic and lemon, the Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. This recipe combines tender, juicy shrimp with delicate angel hair pasta tossed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, making every bite feel like a celebration. The fresh spinach adds a lovely pop of color and nutrients, while the Parmesan cheese creates a velvety finish. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend indulgence, this dish is simple enough to whip up quickly yet impressive enough to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient shines through to create an irresistible dish. Each component is essential, working together to balance rich, tangy, and fresh flavors while keeping the textures light and satisfying.

• 1½ lbs Jumbo or large shrimp: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for a sweet, succulent seafood flavor.
• 16 ounces angel hair pasta: Its thin strands soak up sauce quickly and complement the shrimp perfectly.
• 5 to 6 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic ensures a pungent, aromatic base that brightens the dish.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a velvety texture, essential for that addictive sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps cook the shrimp evenly and keeps the pasta silky without overpowering the flavors.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a salty, nutty undertone that binds the dish together.
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves: Brings a fresh, earthy element and vibrant color to the plate.
• Juice from 2 lemons: Provides a refreshing citrus zing that cuts through the richness of butter.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors without stealing the spotlight.

How to Make Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by cooking your angel hair pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. It’s important not to overcook since angel hair is delicate and will continue to soften when tossed with the sauce later. Drain well and set aside, but reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water — this starchy liquid can be a secret weapon to smooth out the sauce if it gets too thick.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Once the butter bubbles, add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden—but be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will add bitterness. This step builds the foundational flavor that infuses every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the garlic butter mixture, season them with salt and pepper, and sauté until they turn pink and opaque, usually 3 to 4 minutes depending on their size. Toss them gently so they cook evenly and absorb that rich garlic butter flavor perfectly while staying tender and juicy.

Step 4: Incorporate the Spinach and Lemon Juice

Once the shrimp are just cooked, add the fresh spinach leaves directly into the pan. Stir them until they wilt, which should take about a minute. Then pour in the fresh lemon juice to brighten up the whole mixture, giving it a wonderful tangy kick that lifts all the buttery goodness to the next level.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now, add your cooked angel hair pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and spinach mixture. Toss everything together over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir well so it melts evenly, coating every strand of pasta with creamy, cheesy indulgence.

How to Serve Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To make this dish truly pop at the table, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. A little extra grated Parmesan never hurts either. For a zesty touch, consider adding thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of lemon zest to amplify that vibrant citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a light side salad featuring crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is also a winning companion, perfect for soaking up any leftover buttery sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the shrimp and pasta in individual shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side. You can also plate the dish on a large serving platter, layering the shrimp on top of the pasta with the spinach scattered artistically. Drizzle a touch more olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be rare…), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The shrimp and pasta will keep their flavor well, but for best texture, enjoy as soon as possible.

Freezing

Freezing shrimp pasta dishes can sometimes compromise texture, especially the delicate angel hair pasta. However, if needed, freeze in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

When reheating the Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe, do so on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking and dryness. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the shrimp tender and the pasta from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is traditional here for its delicate texture, you can use linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine as a heartier alternative. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that might dilute the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Sliced cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or bell peppers make excellent additions and add extra color and nutrition alongside the spinach.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté step, or drizzle some chili oil over the finished pasta to give it a delicious kick without overpowering the lemon butter flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the angel hair pasta for a gluten-free pasta option. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Sautéed Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite in my kitchen. Its fresh, inviting flavors come together effortlessly to create a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—you might just find it becoming your go-to for those nights when you want comfort with a splash of elegance.

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