Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine (20 Minutes)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces linguine pasta (choose your favorite brand or a whole grain option for extra fiber); 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference); salt and pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped); 1 lemon (juice of 1 lemon); grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

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If you’re craving a meal that’s both quick and indulgently delicious, look no further than this Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine (20 Minutes). This dish comes together in no time, bringing tender shrimp, perfectly cooked linguine, and a luscious garlic butter sauce all on one plate. It’s a weeknight winner that feels special enough for guests but simple enough for any busy evening. The bright zing of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley elevate the flavors, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine (20 Minutes) recipe is a shining example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something spectacular. The buttery garlic sauce clings perfectly to every strand of linguine, while the shrimp add a satisfying bite. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again:

Speedy and simple: From start to finish in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: Garlic, butter, lemon, and a hint of red pepper create a harmonious burst of taste.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite herbs or extra veggies.
Impressively elegant: Feels like a restaurant-quality meal but is made in your own kitchen.
Nutritious and protein-rich: Shrimp provide lean protein, paired with the comfort of pasta.

Ingredient Checklist

8 ounces linguine pasta: Choose your favorite brand or a whole grain option for extra fiber.
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, tails removed for easy eating.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for a rich garlic butter sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key to that bold aroma and flavor.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick; adjust to your spice preference.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note.
Juice of 1 lemon: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For serving, adds a savory, nutty finish.

What’s in the Gear List

Large pot: For boiling the linguine pasta.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the shrimp and make the garlic butter sauce.
Colander: For draining the pasta.
Garlic press or fine grater: Optional but handy for mincing garlic.
Measuring spoons: For accurate seasoning and spice amounts.
Tongs or pasta fork: For tossing pasta with the sauce evenly.

From Start to Finish: Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine (20 Minutes)

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-9 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained linguine. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Flavors

Turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley and the juice of one lemon. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Dish out the Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine onto plates, and if you like, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately for best results.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Add sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of green and extra nutrients.
Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of cooked chicken if you prefer.
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet, tangy twist.
Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
Serve alongside Garlic Butter Pull Apart Rolls to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Overcooked shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—keep an eye so they don’t become rubbery.
Burnt garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long; sauté just until fragrant.
Soggy pasta: Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce, but avoid adding too much liquid.
Under-seasoned sauce: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine (20 Minutes) is best served fresh but can be prepped in parts to save time:

Peel and devein shrimp ahead of time and keep refrigerated.
Chop garlic and parsley in advance and store in airtight containers.
Cook pasta slightly under al dente, toss with a little oil, and refrigerate. Reheat quickly in the skillet with the sauce.
Store cooked shrimp separately and add at the last minute to warm through.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan. Frozen shrimp can work just as well and are often more convenient.

What can I substitute if I don’t have linguine?

Any long pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even bucatini will work beautifully. The key is to use a pasta that can hold onto the garlic butter sauce well.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. The garlic and lemon will still shine, keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the richness of the butter and shrimp. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Final Bite

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine (20 Minutes) is the kind of dish that’s as satisfying in flavor as it is quick to prepare. The combination of garlicky butter sauce, tender shrimp, and al dente pasta creates a comfort meal that never feels heavy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. Serve it up with a crisp salad or some warm rolls, and you’ve got a winning dinner that will have you coming back for more. Enjoy every mouthwatering forkful!

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