Samantha When I crave comfort food that feels indulgent yet comes together in just minutes, I always turn to One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. This recipe blends the bold flavors of garlic butter with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta, all simmered in one pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Unlike traditional shrimp scampi that often requires multiple pans, this version keeps everything simple without sacrificing the rich taste of garlic, butter, and parmesan.
What I love about this easy shrimp pasta recipe is its versatility—you can serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a quick family meal, or even an elegant date night at home. The garlic butter sauce coats every strand of pasta while the shrimp adds protein and natural sweetness, making it both satisfying and balanced. Shrimp, as highlighted by Mayo Clinic, is an excellent source of lean protein that’s naturally low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like selenium and B12. Combined with whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles, this dish can be easily tailored to your lifestyle, whether you’re looking for low-carb pasta dinners or quick one-pot weeknight meals.
This pasta dish is proof that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s flavorful, customizable, and ready in just 30 minutes.
One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – Easy Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled & deveined
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Add chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat, stir in parmesan, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Return shrimp to the pot, toss gently, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with extra parmesan on top.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
1. Use fresh shrimp for maximum flavor: Fresh or well-thawed shrimp bring out the best in this creamy shrimp scampi. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the garlic parmesan sauce. 2. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly—just 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink before finishing the pasta. 3. Toast the garlic in butter first: Sautéing garlic in melted butter deepens the flavor of the garlic butter pasta and gives the sauce that classic rich aroma. 4. Save some pasta water for the sauce: A splash of starchy pasta water helps thicken the garlic parmesan sauce and makes the shrimp pasta creamy without being heavy. 5. Add parmesan gradually: Stir in parmesan cheese slowly while whisking the sauce to prevent clumps and achieve a smooth, velvety garlic butter shrimp pasta. 6. Try wine for a restaurant-style twist: A splash of white wine added after the garlic cooks enhances the depth of flavor and makes this easy one-pot shrimp scampi taste gourmet. 7. Garnish right before serving: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or even a squeeze of lemon brightens up the creamy pasta and balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce.Recipe Overview
- Course: Dinner, Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American Comfort
- Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Main Ingredients: Shrimp, spaghetti or linguine, butter, garlic, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, parsley
- Best For: Weeknight dinners, quick pasta nights, family meals, date night
Nutritional Snapshot
- Calories: ~420 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sodium: ~690mg
- Cholesterol: ~210mg
(Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and provides essential vitamins like B12 and minerals such as selenium. According to Nutritionix, it’s also naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for balanced meals.)
Budget Breakdown
- 1 lb large shrimp – $9.99
- Pasta (spaghetti/linguine) – $2.49
- Butter – $1.50
- Garlic (5 cloves) – $0.60
- Parmesan cheese – $3.50
- Fresh parsley & lemon – $1.20
- Pantry staples (salt, pepper, olive oil) – $0.50
Total Cost: ~$19.78
Cost Per Serving: ~$4.95
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration behind this garlic butter shrimp pasta one-pot recipe comes from my busy lifestyle. As a chef, I adore layered flavors, but I also know the importance of keeping weeknight meals practical. I used to prepare shrimp scampi using multiple pans—one for pasta, one for shrimp, and another for sauce. Eventually, I started experimenting with one-pot methods, and to my delight, cooking the pasta directly in garlic butter broth produced even more depth of flavor.
The secret to this dish is balance. The shrimp brings lean protein, the butter creates richness, and the garlic ties it all together with bold aromatics. A squeeze of lemon brightens the sauce, while parmesan adds creamy umami that makes every bite irresistible. According to NIH, seafood like shrimp is one of the best protein sources for maintaining heart health and providing omega-3 fatty acids, making this pasta more than just delicious—it’s nourishing too.
I wanted to create a recipe that combines restaurant-quality taste with true home-cooking convenience. That’s how this creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe became a family favorite in my kitchen. It’s comforting yet light enough to enjoy regularly, and it’s versatile enough to be adapted into a spicy shrimp pasta, a creamy one-pot dinner, or even a Mediterranean-style seafood pasta.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Flavor-Packed Comfort
When you crave comfort food that delivers big flavor in every bite, One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta hits the spot. The combination of rich garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and freshly grated parmesan creates a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s the kind of pasta dinner that instantly becomes a family favorite and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Quick & Easy Dinner
This recipe proves that gourmet flavors don’t have to take hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and just 20 minutes of cook time, this quick shrimp pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a meal that tastes like restaurant quality without the extra effort.
One-Pot Magic
No need to juggle multiple pans—everything cooks in a single pot. The pasta absorbs the garlicky broth as it simmers, which means maximum flavor with minimum cleanup. This easy one-pot shrimp pasta saves time while creating a creamy garlic butter sauce that clings beautifully to every noodle.
Family-Friendly & Versatile
This recipe is a winner for the whole household. Kids love the buttery noodles, adults appreciate the savory shrimp and parmesan, and you can customize it to fit your needs. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes. Prefer extra veggies? Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. It’s the kind of versatile family dinner recipe that works every time.
A Balanced Meal
Shrimp is naturally lean and packed with protein, making this pasta filling without being heavy. According to Health.com, shrimp is not only low in calories but also a great source of selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12, all of which support overall health. Combined with garlic’s antioxidant benefits and the energy-sustaining carbs from pasta, this dish offers both comfort and nourishment in a single bowl.
More Pasta Dishes You’ll Crave Again and Again
Crowd-Pleaser: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Crispy breaded chicken smothered in creamy ranch, marinara, and melted parmesan
Refreshing Twist: High-Protein Tzatziki Cucumber Salad
A lighter, Mediterranean-inspired side that pairs beautifully with seafood pasta.
Cozy Classic: Old-Fashioned Sloppy Joes
A family-friendly dinner staple with sweet and tangy sauce that satisfies every craving.
Perfect For
Weeknight Dinners
When time is short, this one-pot garlic butter shrimp pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a quick shrimp pasta recipe that balances convenience and flavor without cutting corners. With shrimp, garlic, and buttery noodles all cooked together, you’ll have dinner ready in less than 30 minutes—perfect for busy families or anyone craving comfort without the hassle.
Date Nights at Home
This dish transforms an ordinary evening into something special. The silky garlic butter sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while tender shrimp add elegance without being overly complicated. Pair this buttery garlic shrimp pasta with a glass of white wine and some soft candlelight, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy date night at home. According to Mayo Clinic, shrimp is a lean protein that supports muscle health while staying light, making it ideal for indulgent but balanced meals.
Meal Prep Lunches
Leftovers of this garlic butter shrimp pasta are a meal-prep dream. The sauce reheats beautifully, the shrimp stay juicy, and the pasta remains full of flavor. Pack it for lunches during the week and enjoy a hearty, protein-packed option that saves time while keeping you full and energized.
Family Gatherings
For casual family dinners or potluck nights, this shrimp garlic butter pasta recipe always shines. It’s simple to scale up for larger groups, and pairing it with garlic bread and a side salad makes it a crowd-pleaser across all ages. Kids love the buttery noodles, while adults appreciate the savory shrimp and parmesan balance.
More Irresistible Dinner Ideas You’ll Want to Try
Creamy Comfort: Cheese Hamburger Casserole Delight
A cheesy, beefy pasta bake that’s hearty and satisfying for weeknights.
Fresh & Protein-Packed: Lemon Pepper Chickpea Salad
A zesty, meal-prep friendly salad that makes a great side to pasta dishes.
Family Favorite: Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
Buttery garlic chicken cutlets with a creamy sauce that rival restaurant flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Ingredient Highlights
Shrimp
A lean protein that cooks in minutes and adds sweetness to the garlic butter sauce.
Garlic
The heart of the dish—rich, aromatic, and full of depth. WebMD notes that garlic may support heart health and immunity, adding even more reason to enjoy this dish.
Butter & Olive Oil
Combining the two gives richness without making the dish too heavy.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds creaminess and umami for the ultimate savory bite.
Lemon Juice
Balances the butter with acidity and keeps the shrimp tender.
How to Make This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Add chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat, stir in parmesan, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Return shrimp to the pot, toss gently, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with extra parmesan on top.
Sam’s Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: They should turn pink and opaque—2–3 minutes is all it takes.
- Stir pasta occasionally: This keeps it from sticking and ensures it cooks evenly.
- Reserve some broth: If pasta looks too dry, add a splash at the end for sauciness.
- Add cream for richness: A splash of heavy cream or cream cheese makes a creamy garlic butter shrimp pasta.
Easy Variations You Can Try
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
For those who love indulgent pasta dishes, adding ½ cup of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce transforms this into a creamy garlic shrimp pasta. The richness coats every strand of spaghetti or linguine, while the shrimp stays tender and juicy. This variation is perfect when you want a comforting dinner that feels a little more decadent.
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, turn this recipe into a spicy shrimp pasta by stirring in crushed chili flakes or finishing with a drizzle of chili oil. The subtle heat balances beautifully with the buttery sauce, creating a pasta dish that’s both fiery and satisfying. According to Healthline, chili peppers are packed with antioxidants and can even help boost metabolism—making this twist as beneficial as it is delicious.
Low-Carb Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Looking for a lighter version? Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or even low-carb shirataki noodles. This low-carb garlic butter shrimp pasta variation is keto-friendly, lower in calories, and still bursting with the same savory flavor. It’s a smart way to enjoy comfort food while staying aligned with your health goals.
Mediterranean Style
Add a touch of the Mediterranean by tossing in cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and fresh spinach. This version not only boosts the color and texture but also adds nutrients, turning your shrimp garlic butter pasta into a balanced, vibrant meal that feels gourmet but takes little extra effort.
More Dinner Recipes You’ll Want on Repeat
Cozy & Cheesy: Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
Tender beef and pasta shells in a smoky paprika cream sauce that’s perfect for weeknights.
Fresh & Flavorful: Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl
A protein-packed salad with bold Tex-Mex flavors that pairs beautifully with shrimp pasta.
Comfort Classic: Viral Ground Beef Bowls
A sweet and tangy ground beef dinner that’s a nostalgic favorite for family meals.
Storage and Reheat Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Best eaten fresh, but you can freeze pasta without shrimp for up to 1 month. Add freshly cooked shrimp before serving.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
Make It a Meal
Looking to complete your dinner spread? Try pairing this pasta with:
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – A hearty beef pasta with smoky flavor.
- Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes – A sweet breakfast-for-dinner twist.
- Peach Caprese Pasta Salad with Honey Balsamic Drizzle – A crisp, refreshing side to balance the pasta.
Or explore more in my One-Pot Dinner Recipes, Summer Grilling, and Pasta Favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make garlic butter shrimp pasta without cream?
Yes! This recipe is naturally creamy from the garlic butter, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese. You don’t need cream unless you want extra richness, which makes this dish flexible for different dietary preferences.
What’s the best pasta for garlic butter shrimp pasta?
Spaghetti or linguine works best because they hold the sauce well, but fettuccine, angel hair, or even penne can be used if that’s what you have on hand. For a healthier twist, whole-wheat pasta or chickpea pasta adds extra fiber and protein.
How do I keep shrimp tender in pasta?
The secret is to cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them—shrimp usually only need 2–3 minutes per side.
Is garlic butter shrimp pasta healthy?
Yes—in moderation. Shrimp is naturally low in calories and provides lean protein, while garlic adds antioxidants and immune-supporting compounds. According to the NIH, shrimp also contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that supports brain and heart health. Using whole-grain pasta and moderate butter makes this dish a balanced, satisfying option.
Can I meal prep this pasta?
Absolutely. Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or olive oil to restore the silky texture of the sauce.
Can I make garlic butter shrimp pasta gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties such as rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or chickpea pasta. Just be mindful of cooking times since gluten-free pasta tends to soften quickly.
What vegetables go well in garlic butter shrimp pasta?
Spinach, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli all pair beautifully with garlic butter shrimp pasta. They add nutrients, color, and a light freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Can I freeze garlic butter shrimp pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish in portions. Cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with broth or olive oil to prevent the shrimp from drying out. The USDA recommends storing cooked seafood in the freezer no longer than 3 months for best quality.
What wine pairs best with garlic butter shrimp pasta?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the buttery garlic flavors and enhances the delicate sweetness of the shrimp.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, food should be simple, comforting, and a joy to share—and this One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta embodies all of that. It’s the kind of recipe that works just as well for a weeknight rush as it does for a special meal, proving that elegance and ease can coexist beautifully in the same dish.
Every time I make this pasta, I’m reminded of why one-pot meals have become such staples in modern kitchens. They save time, reduce dishes, and allow flavors to mingle in ways that feel both rustic and refined. Best of all, this pasta is endlessly adaptable—whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, or loaded with fresh vegetables, it will always deliver a satisfying bowl of comfort.
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines speed, flavor, and nutrition, this garlic butter shrimp pasta will quickly earn its place in your rotation. It’s hearty, customizable, and sure to impress anyone you serve it to.
“Simple ingredients, one pot, and twenty minutes—that’s all it takes to create comfort on a plate.” – Sam
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Tender shrimp, buttery garlic pasta, and parmesan all made in one pot—this 30-minute dinner is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights.
