Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
8 oz (about 2 cups) of your favorite pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges for serving
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
Stir in the heavy cream, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet.
Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly.
Add Parmesan Cheese:
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring.
Continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce thickens.
Season and Garnish:
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat).
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve:
Serve your garlic butter shrimp pasta hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and extra Parmesan, if desired.