Introduction
Welcome to a delicious culinary adventure that brings the flavors of the coast right to your kitchen! This One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a dream come true for any seafood lover. Imagine succulent shrimp glistening in a rich garlic butter sauce, intertwined with perfectly cooked pasta and vibrant cherry tomatoes. Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it also comes together in just one pot—making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to turn a beautiful golden color as it warms up.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pot, sautéing until fragrant—about 1 minute is all you need to fill your kitchen with amazing aromas.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to mix well, and bring it to a gentle simmer. The base of your dish is starting to take form!
- Stir in the linguine or spaghetti, letting it soak up all that flavorful broth. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Add the shrimp and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot, cooking until the shrimp turn a lovely pink color and are cooked through—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a final boost of freshness.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the burst of flavors with each delicious bite!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, this recipe works beautifully with chicken or even veggies for a vegetarian option. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, just be sure to add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it creamy and delightful!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes great use of sautéing and simmering techniques to build deep, rich flavors in just one pot. Sautéing the garlic ensures it releases its aromatic oils, while simmering the pasta in broth allows it to absorb maximum flavor. It’s a simple cooking method that’s perfect for busy cooks!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the dish to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or seafood stock work well as alternatives to keep it flavorful.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components (like cooking the pasta and shrimp) ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Conclusion
This One Pot Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect answer to your dinner dilemmas, combining ease with incredible flavor. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful meal that brings smiles around the table. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a staple in your kitchen—it’s hard to resist that garlic butter goodness!