Description

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine is a quick and flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender shrimp, a creamy lemon-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. With bright lemon zest, rich garlic, and a silky sauce enhanced by Parmesan and pesto, every bite feels indulgent yet fresh. It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 garlic cloves, minced and divided
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup pesto
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional garnishes: shredded Parmesan, chopped parsley, fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp, 4 minced garlic cloves, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Transfer shrimp and juices to a plate.
5. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
6. Add the remaining 2 garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds.
7. Sprinkle in the flour and cook while stirring for 1 minute.
8. Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and pesto until the mixture is smooth.
9. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
10. Reduce the heat to low and stir in lemon juice and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
11. Add the cooked shrimp with juices and the pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce.
12. Add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
13. Taste and season with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
14. Garnish with Parmesan, parsley, or lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Serving Tips

Serve immediately while the sauce is creamy and hot.
Add fresh lemon juice right before serving for a brighter, fresher flavor.
Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for added richness.
Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
For a lighter meal, serve alongside steamed broccoli or asparagus.
Add cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit more heat.
A chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Add a splash of milk, cream, or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat for the best texture.
Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long as it can become rubbery.
Freezing is not recommended because creamy sauces often separate.