Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a luxurious and comforting dish that brings together tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce. This restaurant-quality meal can be made at home in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is irresistibly creamy, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to prepare. The garlic and Parmesan bring depth to the sauce, while the shrimp adds a touch of elegance and protein. It’s satisfying, quick, and always a hit with both seafood lovers and pasta fans.

Ingredients

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

• Pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

• Add vegetables: Spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes can be added for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
• Use a different protein: Chicken or scallops make excellent substitutes for shrimp.
• Lighter version: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are all excellent choices, but any pasta will work.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

Is this dish very garlicky?

The garlic flavor is prominent but balanced; adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s best to use raw shrimp for better texture, but pre-cooked can be added at the end to heat through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk with a bit of flour, or a dairy-free cream alternative can be used.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance for quick cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

What cheese works best besides Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago can also be used for a similar flavor profile.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese, and stir gently to combine.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine before adding cream adds great flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an elegant, satisfying dish that’s rich in flavor and easy to prepare. With tender shrimp, a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s an ideal choice for both weeknight comfort and special occasions. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, memorable meal.

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