Delightful One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for Busy Weeknights

I’m so excited to welcome you to my little corner of the culinary world. I’m 40, a proud mom of two amazing kids, and a wife who loves turning our everyday meals into moments of joy and connection. That’s why today I’m sharing my go-to One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe—a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that feels special. With tender shrimp bathed in a garlic butter sauce and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time around the table. Grab your skillet, and let’s make magic!

The Story & Inspiration Behind One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A Personal Memory

When my oldest started soccer practice last fall, I realized that I needed meals that came together fast yet tasted homemade. One evening, between carpool and homework help, I threw shrimp, pasta, garlic, and butter into a pan, hoping for the best. Surprisingly, it turned into a hit; my kids devoured every bite, and my husband asked for seconds. Ever since that night, I’ve called it One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Moreover, it reminds me that sometimes the simplest ideas bring the greatest joy. Whether you’re racing the clock or craving comfort, this recipe delivers every time.

Why This Recipe Matters

This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta blends convenience, flavor, and minimal cleanup—qualities that busy families crave. Unlike traditional shrimp pasta dishes that require multiple pots, this version uses just one pan. Consequently, you save both time and energy. In addition, you can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or pantry stock. For instance, swap chicken broth for veggie broth or add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Overall, this recipe proves that easy seafood dinners can still impress, making it a staple for weeknight menus across the U.S.

Ingredients & Instructions

Ingredients You Need for One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Ingredient	Quantity
Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined	12 oz
Linguine or spaghetti	8 oz
Unsalted butter	3 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced	4
Chicken broth	2 cups
Fresh lemon juice	1 tbsp (½ lemon)
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Grated Parmesan cheese	½ cup
Fresh parsley, chopped	2 tbsp
Salt & pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil plus 1 tablespoon of butter. Then sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, and bring to a gentle boil. Next, add the pasta in a single layer and push it under the liquid.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Meanwhile, season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, melt remaining butter and quickly sauté shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside.
5. Once pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed, stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
6. Gently fold cooked shrimp and chopped parsley into the pasta. Then taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a lemon wedge on the side.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas

Smart Swaps & Variations

If you prefer a lower-carb option, swap linguine for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Alternatively, use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Similarly, you can replace shrimp with chunks of white fish or chicken strips. For a plant-based twist, try vegan butter and chickpea pasta, and toss in roasted mushrooms for texture. Furthermore, add vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking to boost color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Meanwhile, chilled white wine or a light rosé complements the seafood flavors beautifully. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to retain creaminess. You can also meal-prep by cooking pasta slightly underdone and adding shrimp fresh before serving to avoid overcooking.

Health Benefits of One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta boasts a balanced nutrition profile that supports an active lifestyle. Shrimp delivers lean protein, packing over 20 grams per 3-ounce serving. Additionally, shrimp provides vitamin B12 and selenium, which support immune health and metabolism. Meanwhile, garlic contributes antioxidants that fight inflammation. By using moderate amounts of butter and Parmesan, you still enjoy healthy fats without overloading calories. Choosing whole wheat pasta or veggie noodles boosts fiber, aiding digestion and satiety. Finally, fresh lemon juice adds vitamin C, enhancing iron absorption. Therefore, this recipe fits a variety of eating plans—keto, low-carb, or balanced diets—while keeping flavor at the forefront.

Conclusion

One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta brings restaurant-quality flavor into your kitchen without the mess. From my busy mom life to your table, this recipe proves that convenience and taste can go hand in hand. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, it delivers warmth and satisfaction. Next time you need an easy seafood dinner, let this dish shine. Moreover, you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together and how often everyone asks for seconds. Give it a try tonight, and savor every garlicky, buttery bite!

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FAQs About One-Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely before cooking, then pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Proceed with the recipe as usual.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking, and ensure the broth covers the noodles. Additionally, use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet for best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap regular pasta for gluten-free linguine or use zucchini noodles. Both options work beautifully in this one-pot method.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, stirring until warmed through. Avoid high heat to prevent shrimp from toughening.