Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp & Fusilli

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a one-pan meal that marries bold flavors with comforting textures. Enter Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp & Fusilli—a dish that effortlessly brings together tender shrimp, al dente fusilli pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss, this recipe checks all the boxes. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a go-to that delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your skillet.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp & Fusilli is a total crowd-pleaser thanks to its rich yet fresh flavor profile. The garlic butter sauce clings beautifully to the spiral-shaped fusilli, capturing every bit of savory goodness. The shrimp cook quickly and remain juicy, while the hint of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of kick without overpowering the dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily swap out ingredients or tweak the spice level to suit your preferences. Best of all, cleanup is a breeze with just one skillet to wash.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 oz fusilli pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto the garlic butter sauce.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Look for fresh or thawed shrimp, size medium to large.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter – The base for our luscious sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – Adds a subtle heat to balance the richness.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground for best flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish with herbal notes.
• 1 lemon, juiced – Adds a refreshing citrus zing to finish.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large skillet or sauté pan – Ideally one with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
• Colander – To drain the pasta.
• Garlic press or fine mincer – For quick and easy garlic prep.
• Measuring spoons and cups – To keep ingredient ratios spot on.
• Tongs or slotted spoon – For turning the shrimp and mixing the pasta.
• Knife and cutting board – To chop parsley and mince garlic.

Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp & Fusilli: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Fusilli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually around 9 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In your skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial for infusing the butter with that irresistible garlic aroma.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and curl up. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked fusilli to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the garlic butter sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed—this helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta spirals.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh parsley and the juice of one lemon. Give everything a good toss to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if desired.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Swap fusilli for spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to cut carbs.
• Use cauliflower rice as a bed for the shrimp and garlic butter instead of pasta.
• Increase the butter slightly to keep the dish rich and satisfying without the carbs.
• Top with extra fresh herbs like basil or chives for added flavor without carbs.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• Reserve pasta water before draining—it’s magic for loosening the sauce without diluting flavor.
• Watch the garlic closely during the sauté; burnt garlic turns bitter and can ruin the sauce.
• Use fresh lemon juice at the end rather than bottled for a brighter, fresher taste.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the shrimp and dry out the pasta.

For make-ahead meal prep, cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then combine and heat just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Is it okay to use olive oil instead of butter?

You can substitute olive oil for butter if you prefer a lighter sauce or want a dairy-free option. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus make excellent additions. Add them in during Step 4 so they cook just enough without losing their vibrant color and texture.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Keep Cooking

• For a creamy twist on shrimp pasta, try this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne.
• If you love bold, spicy flavors, these Honey Sriracha Shrimp Rice Bowls are a must-try.
• Looking for a quick and crispy option? Check out this simple Air Fryer Shrimp recipe.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Skillet Garlic Butter Shrimp & Fusilli piping hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing at the table. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings comfort and elegance in every bite. Enjoy the perfect harmony of garlic, butter, shrimp, and pasta—simplicity at its most delicious.

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