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Creamy Lemon Butter Pasta with Shrimp

Creamy Lemon Butter Pasta with Shrimp - featured image
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This luxurious pasta dish features tender shrimp tossed in a silky, tangy lemon butter cream sauce, finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz fettuccine or linguine (spaghetti works too; use gluten-free pasta if preferred)
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (about 1/4 cup juice)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp (patted dry) and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Immediately pour in heavy cream. Whisk together and let bubble gently for 2 minutes.
  5. Slowly add reserved pasta water, stirring constantly. Sauce should be creamy, not runny. If too thick, add a splash more water.
  6. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss well to coat every strand.
  7. Sprinkle in Parmesan and stir until melted. Return shrimp to the pan and toss gently to warm through (about 1 minute).
  8. Stir in chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning—extra lemon, salt, or pepper as needed.
  9. Serve immediately while hot. Finish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.

Notes

Watch shrimp closely to avoid overcooking; they should be just pink and opaque. Reserve pasta water before draining for a silky sauce. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan. Add veggies like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp pasta, lemon butter pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, 30 minute meal, seafood pasta, weeknight dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-lemon-butter-pasta-with-shrimp-easy-30-minute-dinner-recipe/