Bow Tie Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp because it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta and tender shrimp, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, keeps me coming back for more. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but the flavors come together beautifully in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an impressively simple meal for guests, this pasta dish delivers on both taste and satisfaction.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:25:37.526Z

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I used a mix of fresh shrimp and a splash of lemon juice, which elevated the dish by adding a zestiness that paired wonderfully with the richness of the butter. The key is to not overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and tender, enhancing the overall texture of the meal.

One detail that transformed my cooking was using high-quality ingredients. Opting for fresh garlic and real butter made all the difference in creating a velvety sauce that clings lovingly to each bow tie pasta. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary meals in minimal time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich and savory garlic butter sauce that elevates the dish
Perfectly cooked shrimp that add protein and flavor
Quick and easy preparation makes it a weeknight favorite

The Art of Cooking Perfect Pasta

To achieve the ideal texture for your bow tie pasta, be sure to cook it in a large pot of salted water—about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water enhances the flavor. Check the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest; al dente pasta should be firm to the bite but not crunchy. Drain it promptly to prevent further cooking and stickiness.

If you find that your pasta tends to clump together, a quick rinse with cold water can help separate the noodles. However, keep in mind that this may also wash away some of the delicious starches that help the sauce cling. I usually avoid rinsing and allow the pasta to hold onto its residual starch.

Getting the Shrimp Just Right

For perfectly cooked shrimp, ensure they are fresh and thawed properly if using frozen. Pat them dry to achieve a better sear and season them just before cooking to bring out their natural flavors. Overcooking is a common issue; you’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque, typically taking about 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they reach this stage to prevent rubbery textures.

Using a large skillet allows for optimal spacing between shrimp, which helps them cook evenly. If your pan is overcrowded, consider searing in batches. Additionally, using high-quality, unsalted butter enhances the richness of the garlic butter sauce, creating a harmonious blend with the shrimp.

Elevating Flavor with Garlic Butter

The balance of garlic and butter in this dish is crucial for delivering that rich, savory flavor. When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it—overcooking can lead to bitterness. Aim for a golden hue and fragrant aroma, about a minute on medium heat. Adjust your garlic quantity according to your preference; more garlic will intensify the dish’s flavor profile.

If you're looking to incorporate a twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat or a splash of white wine for depth. The lemon juice should be freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor, complementing the richness of the butter and balancing the dish wonderfully.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Shrimp

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the remaining butter and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well combined. Stir in the chopped parsley.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, drizzling with extra lemon juice if desired and garnish with more parsley.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Pair with a crisp white wine to enhance the dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be partially prepared ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet with a little butter to prevent overcooking when ready to serve. Toss them with the pasta and sauce right before serving to ensure everything is hot.

If you're planning to freeze leftovers, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change after thawing. It's best to undercook the pasta slightly so it retains its firmness when reheated. For freezing, store the shrimp and pasta in separate bags to maintain quality.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, complement your Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the palate and balances the richness of the dish. Additionally, some crusty bread can help scoop up the delicious sauce.

If you're looking to impress guests, consider garnishing with shaved Parmesan or toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. Present the dish family-style in a large bowl, and don't forget a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra fresh squeeze just before digging in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for pasta?

You can use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta as an alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers would work well in this dish.