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When it comes to comfort food that pleases the palate and warms the heart, few dishes can compete with garlic butter shrimp with creamy pasta. This enticing meal brings together succulent shrimp, a rich and velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that elevate any dining experience. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking to treat yourself after a long day, this dish is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and gourmet appeal.

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with garlic butter shrimp and creamy pasta. This delicious dish combines succulent shrimp, a rich garlic butter sauce, and tender fettuccine for a delightful blend of flavors. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day, this easy-to-make recipe balances richness with a refreshing pop of lemon. Elevate your dining experience with this indulgent yet simple meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Try it today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

5 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

Salt and black pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve about one cup of the pasta water for later use.

    Prepare the Shrimp: Season the cleaned shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure they are well-flavored.

      Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, carefully add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have turned a beautiful pink and opaque color. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them on a plate; set aside.

        Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When it has melted, toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, stirring continuously, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Take care not to let it burn, as that can impart a bitter taste.

          Combine and Thicken: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, gently add the heavy cream, along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

            Add Cheese and Season: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary for your preferred flavor.

              Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked fettuccine and sautéed shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta and shrimp are fully coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce seems overly thick, incorporate reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

                Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for a delightful touch.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4