Bow Tie Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Family Collection

I absolutely love preparing Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp as it combines my favorite flavors in a delightful way. The delicate bow tie pasta pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, and the garlic butter sauce elevates the dish to a level of indulgence that I can't resist. Every time I serve this dish, it receives rave reviews from family and friends. It’s surprisingly quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:41:36.953Z

My journey with Bow Tie Pasta and Garlic Butter Shrimp started when I was looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to impress my guests. One evening, I combined sautéed garlic with buttery shrimp and tossed it with fresh pasta. The aroma that filled my kitchen was simply irresistible!

Over time, I've perfected the technique of timing the shrimp and pasta so everything is perfectly cooked. A key tip is to reserve a little pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid adds an amazing creaminess to the sauce, making every bite unforgettable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Delicious garlic butter sauce that enhances every bite
Perfect texture from the bow tie pasta
Quick preparation that doesn't compromise on flavor

Ingredient Insights

The choice of shrimp is crucial for this dish. I recommend using large, fresh shrimp for the best texture, but frozen shrimp can work too. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess water. The shrimp should be peeled and deveined for an indulgent bite without any grittiness. If you're feeling adventurous, you might consider substituting shrimp with scallops or even a mix of seafood for a delightful twist.

Garlic is the star of the show in this recipe, so using fresh garlic cloves is a must. Pre-minced garlic can lack the robust flavor that freshly minced garlic brings. When sautéed, fresh garlic releases essential oils, providing a fragrant aroma and essential taste that you want to savor in each bite of this pasta.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the pasta, be sure to use a large pot and plenty of salted water. This helps to prevent the pasta from sticking together and ensures it cooks evenly. Remember to reserve some pasta water; it’s a trick to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the bow tie pasta. If you forget, don't worry! You can always add a bit of regular water to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Sautéing the shrimp over medium heat allows for a perfect caramelization without overcooking. Watch for the shrimp to turn a bright pink and become opaque—this indicates they are done. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on the timer. If they start to curl tightly, it’s a sure sign they need to come off the heat!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Juice of 1 lemon

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and parsley. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously satisfying meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce while cooking the shrimp.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This bow tie pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make components ahead of time. You can cook the pasta and shrimp separately and then bring them together just before serving. The garlic butter sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat to avoid toughening the shrimp.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of lemon juice and a bit of reserved pasta water to help recreate the sauce’s original creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple mixed greens salad to balance out the richness of the garlic butter sauce. If you're looking to elevate it further, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a dollop of ricotta cheese on top for creaminess. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, can also enhance the dining experience.

For a richer flavor profile, try infusing the butter with herbs like thyme or basil before adding the garlic. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; while bow tie is delightful, fusilli or linguine could work well too, providing a unique shape and texture to enjoy with the shrimp and sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta available at most grocery stores.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead and reheat before serving.