Craving a dish that’s bursting with bright, zesty flavors and creamy, buttery goodness? Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is that perfect weeknight dinner that feels both elegant and effortless. With succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta, and finished with fresh parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes, this recipe hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 30 minutes. Ready to learn how to make this irresistible meal? Let’s dive in!

Why It’s My Go-To

There’s something so satisfying about a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and requires just a handful of ingredients. Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta checks all those boxes. I love how the bright lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of the butter, creating a perfectly balanced sauce. The shrimp cook quickly and stay tender, while the pasta soaks up every bit of that garlicky, buttery sauce. Plus, this recipe is incredibly adaptable—you can easily swap linguine for fettuccine, or adjust the spice level with more or less red pepper flakes. It’s a delightful, fuss-free recipe that never fails to impress.

This dish is also a fantastic way to sneak in some seafood for a protein-packed dinner, and it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. If you’re a fan of dishes like Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine or Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta, you’ll adore this fresh twist on shrimp pasta with lemon butter sauce.

Ingredient Checklist

8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine works perfectly)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large size)
4 tbsp unsalted butter (for that silky, rich sauce)
2 cloves garlic, minced (for that punch of flavor)
1 lemon, juiced and zested (for brightness and zing)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for freshness and color)
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional but highly recommended)

Gear Up: What to Grab

Large pot – for boiling the pasta
Large skillet – to cook the shrimp and make the sauce
Colander – to drain the pasta
Zester or grater – to zest the lemon
Citrus juicer (optional) – to get every drop of lemon juice
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring
Tongs – to toss the pasta with sauce and shrimp

Mastering Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta: How-To

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, along with the rest of the red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly in the lemon butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Parsley and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and give it one last toss. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, with grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Make It Diet-Friendly

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to add fiber and protein.
Reduce butter to 2 tablespoons and substitute the rest with olive oil for a lighter sauce.
Increase the amount of shrimp or add steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus to boost nutrition.
Skip the Parmesan or use a smaller amount of a lower-fat cheese.

Pro Tips & Notes

Don’t overcook the shrimp – they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Watch for that pink color and firm texture.
Reserve some pasta water before draining; this starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta perfectly.
For an extra lemony punch, add a little lemon juice right before serving.
If you like a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
Fresh parsley is key for bright color and fresh flavor; don’t skip it!

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the shrimp tender and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

What type of pasta works best for Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Linguine and fettuccine are ideal because their flat strands hold onto the lemon butter sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with spaghetti or even penne if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder dish, omit or reduce the red pepper flakes. For more heat, increase them or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine – another zesty shrimp pasta with layers of garlic and butter.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta – a classic shrimp scampi with a buttery garlic sauce that’s hard to resist.
Creamy Tomato Pasta – a luscious and comforting pasta with a rich tomato cream sauce.
Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta – bold flavors and a spicy kick for those who like it hot.

Time to Try It

There’s nothing quite like the fresh, tangy flavor of lemon paired with tender shrimp and rich butter in a comforting pasta dish. This Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe lineup. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and get ready to enjoy a plate full of bright, buttery, garlicky goodness that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Bon appétit!

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