Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp tossed in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, all combined with perfectly cooked pasta. This restaurant-quality meal is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Rich and Creamy: The combination of garlic, cream, and parmesan creates a velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The garlic-infused sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp, offering a delicious contrast.
• Customizable: Easily adapt this dish with different proteins, vegetables, or spices.
• Impressive Yet Simple: It looks and tastes like a gourmet meal but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Lemon juice
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the shrimp: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the garlic sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Make it creamy: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
6. Finish with fresh flavors: Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley for a fresh, bright taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Try pecorino romano instead of parmesan for a sharper, saltier taste.
• Protein Substitutions: Replace shrimp with chicken, salmon, or scallops.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Avoid overcooking by removing the shrimp as soon as they turn pink and opaque, usually within 2-3 minutes per side.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What pasta works best with this dish?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are ideal, as they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and thick.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

What can I use instead of white wine?

Chicken or vegetable broth is a great substitute for white wine in the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce separately and reheat it before adding freshly cooked pasta.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make this meal suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water for extra thickness.

Can I add bacon or pancetta?

Yes, crispy bacon or pancetta can add a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an easy yet elegant dish that combines tender shrimp, a rich garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience in just 25 minutes. Try out different variations to suit your preferences and enjoy this comforting dish anytime.