Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A flavorful and easy-to-make pasta dish with succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a kick of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta of choice
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions:
-
Cook the pasta:
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
-
Cook the shrimp:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
-
Make the garlic butter sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds.
-
Combine everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce.
- If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the pasta and toss in the cooked shrimp.
-
Serve:
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Shrimp Tip: Frozen shrimp can be just as good as fresh and are often cheaper.
- Heat Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on how spicy you like your pasta.
- For extra flavor: Add a handful of spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pasta for added color and freshness!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete meal.