There’s something truly satisfying about a dish that comes together in just minutes yet feels like a special treat—and this 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta checks all those boxes. The bright zing of fresh lemon mingles perfectly with silky butter, creating a sauce that clings to tender shrimp and al dente pasta in a way that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Get ready to whip up a homemade meal that tastes like it belongs in a cozy seaside bistro—but with half the fuss!
Why choose 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Speed meets flavor: Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Bright, fresh zest: The lemon’s tangy vibrance lifts the buttery richness for a refreshing bite. Simple elegance: Minimal ingredients deliver a restaurant-quality meal at home. Versatile delight: Pair it with a crisp salad or crusty bread for a complete feast. Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Shrimp and pasta combined create a satisfying, comforting favorite everyone will love.
15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Sauce
- Shrimp (16-20 count, peeled and deveined) – Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor in your 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons) – Adds richness and helps create that silky sauce that perfectly coats pasta and shrimp.
- Fresh garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings aromatic depth and a subtle kick to the buttery sauce.
- Lemon juice (from 1 large lemon) – The bright star of the dish, balancing the butter with zesty freshness.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon) – Amp up the citrus flavor for a vibrant, sunny note.
For the Pasta
- Spaghetti or linguine (8 ounces) – Choose a long pasta that twirls beautifully and holds the sauce well.
- Salt (for pasta water) – Essential for seasoning pasta from within, boosting overall flavor.
For Garnish and Extras
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal brightness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch) – For a gentle heat contrast that elevates the dish’s complexity.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – Sprinkle generously if you crave a creamy, savory finish.
How to Make 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 8 oz spaghetti, and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter, add minced garlic, then shrimp. Sauté 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
For the Sauce: - Add Lemon & Butter: Pour in fresh lemon juice, stir in lemon zest and 2 tbsp butter. Simmer about 1 minute until smooth and fragrant.
- Combine & Toss: Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in buttery lemon sauce and shrimp, heating another 30 seconds.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley, optional red pepper flakes, and grate Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Optional: Drizzle extra lemon juice for a brighter zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Complete your culinary experience with delightful pairings that elevate this elegant dish.
-
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery slices are perfect for soaking up the buttery lemon sauce, adding a comforting crunch.
-
Mixed Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast that balances the richness of the pasta.
-
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice enhances the dish with its earthy flavor and complements the citrus notes.
-
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings out the dish’s brightness, creating a harmonious dining experience.
-
Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color, enhancing both texture and freshness in every bite.
-
Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing finish, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate and echo the vibrant citrus flavors of the main dish.
Make Ahead Options
This 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic dish for meal prep lovers! You can clean and marinate the shrimp with lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. The pasta can also be cooked and drained ahead of time; just toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and it will hold well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the shrimp until pink, add the butter, and toss everything together, heating for an additional 30 seconds. This way, you’ll have a remarkably delicious meal on your table with minimal last-minute effort!
Tips for the Best 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For tender, juicy shrimp that enhance the dish’s flavor and texture, opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp to avoid rubberiness.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook spaghetti until just al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when tossed with the warm sauce. Al dente pasta holds sauce better.
- Mince Garlic Finely: Even cooking and subtle garlic aroma depend on finely minced garlic—it blends seamlessly with the butter and lemon without overpowering.
- Balance Lemon Flavor: Add lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go to achieve a bright zest without making the sauce too tart or sour.
- Low and Slow Sauce Heat: Simmer the lemon butter sauce gently to prevent butter from separating, ensuring a smooth, silky coating for your shrimp and pasta.
- Season Pasta Water Generously: Salting the boiling water well is essential to infuse the pasta with enough flavor, highlighting the fresh, buttery sauce perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or additional lemon juice to restore moisture.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta without shrimp for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: For frozen pasta, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a little butter to help revive the richness of the sauce.
Variations & Substitutions for 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make this dish your own!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta for a delightful option that maintains all the flavors without the gluten impact. Many gluten-free pastas hold up well in this recipe.
-
Vegetable Twist: Swap shrimp for sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a vibrant, veggie-loaded meal that offers fresh textures. This adds a lovely crunch while maintaining the essence of the dish.
-
Herb Boost: Add fresh dill or basil, along with the parsley, to deepen the flavor profile and introduce new aromatic notes. Experimenting with herbs can change the entire mood of the dish!
-
Citrus Variations: Try lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a refreshing twist, each bringing its unique sweetness and fragrance, perfect for different palates.
-
Creamy Indulgence: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to create an ultra-rich sauce that envelops the pasta luxuriously. It’s an indulgent take perfect for special occasions or comfort food cravings.
-
Spicy Kick: For a heat boost, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while sautéing the shrimp to give your dish a delightful fiery edge. The heat will contrast beautifully with the buttery sauce!
-
Protein Alternatives: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, substitute with chicken breast or cooked chickpeas for a hearty alternative that adds a different flavor while still being quick to prepare.
-
Parmesan Variance: Use grana padano or pecorino romano instead of Parmesan for a nuanced flavor twist that brings a new depth to the dish. The choice of cheese can elevate the taste dramatically!
15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for the best flavor and texture?
Fresh or properly thawed shrimp (16-20 count, peeled and deveined) work best in this recipe. Avoid frozen shrimp with ice crystals, as they can make the texture rubbery when cooked quickly.
How long can I store leftover 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta in the refrigerator?
You can safely keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or lemon juice to keep the sauce fresh and silky.
Can I freeze the 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, remove the shrimp first since seafood textures don’t freeze well. Cool the pasta completely, then pack it into a freezer-safe container or bag, and store for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a bit of butter to bring back that luscious sauce.
What should I do if my lemon butter sauce separates or looks greasy?
This can happen if the heat is too high when melting butter. To fix it, lower the heat immediately and add a tiny splash of warm water or fresh lemon juice while whisking gently. This helps re-emulsify the sauce into a smooth, velvety consistency.
Is the 15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta safe for pets or suitable for certain food allergies?
This dish contains shrimp, garlic, butter, and wheat pasta, so it’s not suitable for pets or those allergic to shellfish, dairy, or gluten. For allergy-friendly options, consider substituting shrimp with cooked chicken or vegetables, using dairy-free butter alternatives, and gluten-free pasta.
15-Minute Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta: Easy, Zesty Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 8 oz spaghetti, and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter, add minced garlic, then shrimp. Sauté 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
- Pour in fresh lemon juice, stir in lemon zest and 2 tbsp butter. Simmer about 1 minute until smooth and fragrant.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in buttery lemon sauce and shrimp, heating another 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley, optional red pepper flakes, and grate Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately for best flavor.
