Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp Fettuccine with Parsley is a dish that brings together the luxurious silkiness of fettuccine pasta, the succulent sweetness of shrimp, and the bold, comforting flavor of garlic butter. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, adding freshness that balances out the richness of the butter sauce.

This meal is the perfect combination of indulgence and simplicity. It looks like a restaurant-quality dish but can be made in under 30 minutes at home. The garlic butter sauce coats each strand of pasta, while tender shrimp add protein, making it both hearty and elegant.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is effortless yet impressive. The buttery garlic sauce clings to the pasta perfectly, while the shrimp cooks up quickly and soaks in all that garlicky goodness. The parsley doesn’t just act as a garnish—it adds a refreshing herbal flavor that elevates the dish.

It’s a go-to recipe for busy nights when I still want something that feels special. Plus, it’s versatile enough to dress up for date night or serve as a comforting family dinner.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor-packed: Garlic butter is always a winner.
• Balanced: Rich but fresh, with shrimp adding protein and parsley adding brightness.
• Crowd-pleaser: Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for weeknights.
• Versatile: Can be adapted with vegetables, cream, or spice to suit preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~520 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the fettuccine until al dente according to package directions.
   • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Cook the shrimp
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter and olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
   • Add shrimp to skillet and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
   • Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce
   • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in white wine (or broth), scraping up browned bits from the pan.
   • Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Combine pasta and shrimp
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing in the garlic butter sauce.
   • Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
   • Return the shrimp to the pan and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Finish with parsley
   • Stir in freshly chopped parsley.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
6. Serve immediately
   • Plate the pasta and top with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
   • Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve in wide pasta bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Pair with garlic bread and a green salad.
• A chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp—they only need a couple of minutes per side.
• Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for the best flavor.
• Always reserve pasta water—it helps create a silky sauce.
• For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream before adding the pasta.

Variations

• Creamy Version: Add 1/2 cup heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in extra Parmesan for a richer sauce.
• Whole-Grain Option: Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as shrimp and pasta don’t reheat well once frozen.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs for tossing pasta
• Microplane or zester (if adding lemon zest)

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

Q: What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine is ideal, but linguine or spaghetti also work.

Q: Can I make this without wine?
Yes, substitute chicken or vegetable broth for similar depth.

Q: Can I add cream to the sauce?
Absolutely—it turns it into a luscious creamy garlic butter sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Fettuccine with Parsley is a dish that combines the elegance of Italian-inspired cuisine with the simplicity of a weeknight dinner. With its garlicky butter sauce, tender shrimp, and fresh parsley, it’s a plate of pure comfort that feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.