Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp

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

Highlighted under: Homestyle Favorites

I absolutely adore making Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp on busy weeknights. The delicate strands of pasta paired with succulent, buttery shrimp create a dish that's both indulgent and quick to prep. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal that feels elevated yet is incredibly easy to whip up. My secret to achieving that mouthwatering flavor lies in the perfect balance of garlic and fresh herbs, which brighten up the dish and make every bite a delight. This is the kind of meal that makes you feel accomplished, even on the busiest days!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:37:36.595Z

When I first made Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The craving for something fancy yet simple led me to experiment with ingredients I had at home. I used fresh shrimp and a generous amount of garlic, resulting in a dish that packed a punch. It's incredible to see how a few quality ingredients can transform simple pasta into a restaurant-worthy meal.

One thing I've learned is that timing is key; I've found that cooking the shrimp just until they turn pink ensures they remain tender and juicy. Pairing the pasta with a splash of lemon juice right before serving elevates the entire dish, giving it a refreshing zest that complements the richness of the garlic butter. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Rich garlic butter sauce enhances the flavors of the shrimp and pasta.
A delightful blend of textures that will satisfy your cravings.

The Perfect Pasta Technique

Cooking angel hair pasta requires attention to timing due to its delicate nature. Ensure you use a large pot of boiling, salted water and follow the package instructions closely, as it typically cooks in just 3-4 minutes. This will help achieve that ideal al dente texture, which is essential for holding up against the creamy garlic butter sauce without becoming mushy. Remember to reserve a bit of the starchy pasta water to help bind everything together later.

When draining the pasta, avoid rinsing it under cold water. Rinsing can wash away the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles. Instead, let it sit in the colander for a minute while you prepare the shrimp, allowing it to steam and stay warm. This step is key to creating a cohesive dish that showcases the luxurious garlic butter flavor.

Shrimp Essentials

Using high-quality shrimp is crucial for this recipe, as they are the stars of the dish. Look for large or jumbo shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen to them. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to avoid uneven cooking. You can do this by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes or leaving them in the refrigerator overnight.

Sautéing the shrimp over medium heat allows for even cooking, resulting in perfectly tender shrimp with just a hint of golden color. Keep an eye on them, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery when overcooked. They should be removed from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes around 2-3 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect meal:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and finish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your freshly made Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing this angel hair pasta with garlic butter shrimp with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A light arugula or spinach salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. If you're feeling extra indulgent, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added depth.

This dish can be topped with different herbs like basil or chives if you're looking to switch things up. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick if you enjoy a little heat. Feel free to experiment with additional toppings that suit your palate!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the angel hair pasta with garlic butter shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, due to the delicate nature of angel hair, it’s best enjoyed fresh. When reheating, consider doing so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more olive oil to prevent drying out and to maintain that buttery sauce.

To freeze, it's advisable to store the shrimp and pasta separately if possible, as shrimp tends to lose its texture when frozen. If you must freeze them together, use within a month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This way, you can preserve the best flavor and texture for your gourmet weeknight dinner!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for angel hair pasta?

You can use any long pasta like spaghetti or linguine.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for angel hair.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding spinach or cherry tomatoes would enhance the dish.