Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne

If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick to whip up and bursting with flavor, Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne is your answer. This recipe combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while fresh lemon juice and parsley bring brightness and freshness to the plate. It’s an elegant yet simple meal that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Top Reasons to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a lifesaver on busy days.
• Flavor-Packed: The garlic butter sauce enhances the shrimp and pasta with rich, savory notes.
• Versatile: It’s easily customizable with herbs or veggies you love.
• Light yet Satisfying: Shrimp is lean protein, making this meal hearty without feeling heavy.
• Great for Entertaining: It looks gourmet but requires minimal effort.

What You’ll Need

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Equipment & Tools

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan – to cook the shrimp and make the sauce
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the ingredients
• Measuring spoons – to ensure precise seasoning
• Knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic and chopping parsley

Build Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking ensures they stay tender and juicy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked penne to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic butter. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pasta and stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne hot, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

Swap Guide

• Pasta: Swap penne for fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti for a different texture.
• Shrimp: Use scallops or chicken breast strips if you prefer a different protein.
• Butter: Substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
• Spices: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level or omit for no spice.
• Cheese: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Things That Go Wrong

• Shrimp Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery. Keep an eye and remove once pink and firm.
• Burnt Garlic: Garlic can burn fast and turn bitter. Sauté on medium heat and stir constantly.
• Dry Pasta: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry sauce. Always save some pasta water to adjust consistency.
• Imbalanced Flavor: Forgetting lemon juice or salt can make the dish flat. Make sure to season at each step.

Best Ways to Store

Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it may toughen the shrimp. For best taste, consume freshly cooked, but this dish holds up well for quick next-day meals.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the sauce texture.

What can I add to make this dish more filling?

Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini can bulk up the dish and add nutrition. You can also toss in some toasted pine nuts or serve with a side salad to create a more substantial meal.

Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the amount slightly and add it a little later in the cooking process to prevent burning.

How do I make this dish creamier?

To transform this into a rich and creamy version, try making Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne by adding heavy cream or a dairy alternative and some grated cheese to the sauce.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – For a luscious twist on shrimp pasta.
• Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Fettuccine – A hearty option packed with savory steak and earthy mushrooms.

The Takeaway

Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne is a straightforward, flavorful dish that delivers big taste with minimal effort. The combination of succulent shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and fresh lemon creates a perfect harmony that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a reliable choice that never disappoints.

Enjoy the balance of rich butter, zesty lemon, and the subtle heat from red pepper flakes all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for that final touch of freshness and umami. This dish proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients come together to make the most memorable meals.

Share on Pinterest