Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – Fancy Flavor, Frugal Price

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Sometimes you crave something rich, savory, and just a bit indulgent, but your budget has other plans. Enter Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta—the dish that tastes gourmet but costs less than a fancy coffee.

Whether it’s a romantic date night at home or a quick dinner fix, this recipe delivers. Best part? You can make it in under 30 minutes!

Why This Recipe Works for Budget Foodies

• Affordable Ingredients: Shrimp, pasta, garlic, butter—most of these items are kitchen staples or can be bought in bulk for cheap.
• Quick Cooking: This dish takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Simple Yet Elegant: A little butter, garlic, and lemon juice can elevate the flavor of inexpensive shrimp to restaurant-quality status.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined. (Frozen shrimp works perfectly and is usually cheaper.)
• Pasta: 8 oz of spaghetti, linguine, or your preferred pasta type.
• Butter: 1/4 cup (half a stick).
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): For extra flavor.
• Parsley (optional): For garnish.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a spicy kick.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
   • Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Combine and Serve:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to coat.
   • Add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese, stirring well.
   • Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Budget-Friendly Tips

• Buy Shrimp in Bulk: Frozen shrimp is often cheaper and keeps well. Just defrost before cooking.
• Use Basic Ingredients: This dish is all about the garlic and butter, so no need to splurge on fancy extras.
• Swap Protein: Not feeling shrimp? Try canned chicken or sautéed veggies for an even cheaper version.

Internal Links to Check Out

• Meal Prep 101: How to Save Time and Money on Family Dinners
• The $50 Grocery Challenge: Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?
• 10 Must-Have Tools to Simplify Your Financial Life
• 5-Minute Budget Hacks for Busy Moms

External Links for Further Reading

• How to Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time
• Safe Cooking Temperatures for Seafood

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta proves that you don’t need a high-end budget to enjoy a high-end meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or trying to impress someone special, this recipe is a surefire hit.

Want more budget-friendly recipes? Browse through KateFi.com for creative, frugal meal ideas that never skimp on flavor.