Bow Tie Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comforts

I can't help but get excited every time I prepare Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp. The delicate shape of the pasta combined with succulent shrimp creates a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with amazing flavors. The garlic butter sauce truly elevates the meal, wrapping the pasta and shrimp in rich, savory goodness. It's my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests or simply indulge in a comforting meal that feels fancy yet is super easy to make.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:17:36.166Z

When I first tried Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of garlic and butter provides an exquisite base that complements the shrimp perfectly. I often find that using fresh garlic and a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish, bringing everything together beautifully.

An essential tip is to cook the shrimp just until they are opaque, so they remain juicy and tender. Stirring in some fresh herbs at the end not only adds vibrant color but elevates the flavor profile, making every bite memorable.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously rich garlic butter flavor that is irresistible
The texture of the bow tie pasta perfectly holds onto the sauce
A quick yet impressive dish great for date nights or gatherings

The Key to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Cooking shrimp to perfection can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips, you'll achieve that ideal tender texture. Make sure your skillet is preheated before adding the shrimp; this ensures they sear nicely and develop that appealing golden color on the outside. Cook them just until they turn opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. If you overcook them, they can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.

To boost the flavor of the shrimp, consider marinating them briefly with lemon juice, salt, and even a pinch of cayenne pepper. A quick 10 to 15-minute marinade can enhance their taste without overpowering the garlic butter sauce. Additionally, you can substitute shrimp with scallops for a different texture; just adjust the cooking time slightly as scallops may require a bit longer.

Enhancing the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is what makes this dish truly special. For an extra depth of flavor, use a mix of unsalted butter and olive oil—this combination can help prevent burning and gives the sauce a more complex profile. When sautéing the garlic, be cautious not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste. You want it to be golden and fragrant, about 1 minute of cooking on medium heat should do the trick.

You can also enrich your sauce with a splash of white wine for added acidity and flavor. If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding a small amount of heavy cream or crème fraîche just before tossing the pasta, turning it into a decadent sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. This variation provides a new twist if you're looking to surprise your guests.

Customizing and Serving Your Dish

This Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp can be easily customized to suit your preferences or use up what you have on hand. Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus during the last few minutes of pasta cooking; they will add vibrant colors and nutritional value. Simply toss them into the boiling water alongside the pasta for the final minute of cooking.

For serving, I enjoy adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, which complements the flavors wonderfully. You can also experiment with different herbs such as basil or dill to bring a fresh element to the dish. Don't forget to serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the remaining garlic butter sauce—a delightful addition that your guests will thank you for!

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Shrimp

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a seamless experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and stir in the lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Combine

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp in the sauce. Mix well and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Plate the pasta and shrimp mixture and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will bring a subtle heat that complements the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, it's essential to store them properly to maintain flavor and texture. Allow the pasta and shrimp mixture to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may turn the shrimp rubbery. Instead, using medium heat in a skillet will keep the shrimp moist while allowing the garlic butter sauce to re-emulsify. If you anticipate having more than a meal's worth, consider making the pasta and shrimp separately, storing them in the refrigerator, and combining them only when ready to eat.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This pasta dish is versatile when it comes to serving sizes. You can easily scale the recipe up or down, depending on your needs. If serving for a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and use a large pot for the pasta and a wide skillet for the shrimp and sauce. Just ensure you maintain the same cooking times, and keep the pasta water boiling to avoid overcooking the pasta.

When making a smaller batch, such as for one or two servings, you can cut the ingredients in half. Just watch the shrimp closely as they may cook a little faster in a smaller batch. For single servings, I recommend using a small skillet, which will also help with achieving a nice sear on the shrimp and maximize that garlic butter flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work fine, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

A light green salad or garlic bread would pair nicely with this meal.

→ Can I substitute the bow tie pasta?

Absolutely! Any piece of pasta such as penne or fusilli can be substituted based on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.