Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Magic

I love making Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp because it combines the delicate texture of angel hair with rich, buttery shrimp in just 30 minutes! The ease of preparing this dish makes it ideal for busy weeknights or even special occasions when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The fragrant garlic and fresh herbs elevate the flavors, creating a delightful dish that pleases everyone at the table, making it my go-to pasta recipe time and again.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:00:47.939Z

When I first tried making Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp, I was astounded by how quickly I could pull off such a fancy dish. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Timing the cooking of the pasta and the shrimp is crucial for the perfect finish. I also like to switch things up by adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving for an extra zing.

The best tip I have learned is to cook shrimp just until they're opaque and curled. Overcooking makes them tough, but beautiful, tender shrimp can elevate the entire dish. I’ve made this a staple in my home, and it never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation that fits your busy schedule.
Delicious combination of garlic and butter enhances the shrimp's flavor.
A dish that feels indulgent but is perfect for any night!

The Perfect Pasta Consistency

Cooking angel hair pasta requires attention because it can easily overcook. Always use a large pot of boiling salted water, and aim for al dente, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Check the package guidelines, but generally, 3 to 4 minutes is sufficient. Pay close attention, as the thin strands will go from perfectly done to too soft in a matter of seconds. Draining it promptly will prevent it from continuing to cook in its own heat.

Once drained, a helpful tip is to toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking while you finish preparing the shrimp. This can also enhance the flavor, providing a subtle richness that complements the garlic butter sauce later on. Just a teaspoon will do the trick to maintain the silky texture of the dish.

Perfecting the Shrimp

Shrimp is the star in this dish, and the cooking method is crucial. When sautéing, make sure the skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding the butter. This helps achieve the perfect sear on the shrimp, giving them a succulent texture. Cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque and pink, about 4 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. Overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp, which can ruin the dish's overall appeal; keep a close eye on them.

I personally love using large shrimp for this recipe because they provide a satisfying bite and hold up well against the delicate angel hair. If you want to make a quicker preparation, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but remember to add them towards the end of the sauté to warm them up without further cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a more rounded meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a crisp side salad, perhaps with a lemon vinaigrette that echoes the lemon juice in the pasta. Additionally, crusty bread is great for soaking up the leftover garlic butter sauce, making each bite more satisfying.

If you're looking to add some extra flair to the presentation, consider garnishing the finished dish with additional parsley or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This not only adds a splash of color but also enhances the flavors with a hint of umami from the cheese. Remember, presentation is key when serving to guests, as it makes the meal feel even more special.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful pasta experience:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have everything ready before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a seamless cooking experience:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp are opaque and pink, about 4-5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the shrimp and garlic butter. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Garnish with more parsley if desired!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider incorporating crushed tomatoes for a light sauce. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

Make-Ahead Options

For busy weeknights, you can prepare elements of this dish in advance. Cook the pasta earlier in the day and toss it with a dash of olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating. The shrimp can also be prepped by peeling and deveining them ahead of time, saving you valuable minutes at dinner time. Just ensure everything is stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

When ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta in boiling water for a minute before adding it to the sautéed shrimp. This way, you’ll retain the dish's delicate texture without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

If you're looking for a variation, consider swapping the shrimp for another protein like scallops or chicken. Both will require similar cooking times but will bring different flavors and textures to the dish. Just be sure to adjust seasonings accordingly, as chicken may need longer to cook through adequately.

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and add some freshly roasted vegetables. The addition of asparagus or zucchini can complement the dish nicely while keeping it light and flavorful, ensuring that it remains appealing even without the shrimp.

Reheating Tips

To reheat leftover angel hair pasta with garlic butter shrimp, I recommend doing so on the stovetop rather than the microwave for better texture. Just add a splash of broth or water to a skillet to help steam the pasta while gently warming it through. This helps revive the dish and prevents it from drying out.

If using the microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and add a few drops of water. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even warming. Just be cautious not to overheat, which can lead to rubbery shrimp and sticky pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use olive oil for a lighter version if desired.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach or cherry tomatoes work great in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.