Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter, then tossed with pasta and coated in a rich and creamy sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that feels restaurant-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and indulgent: The creamy garlic sauce is velvety and delicious.
• Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes for a satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Works with your choice of pasta and add-ins.
• Perfect for any occasion: Elegant enough for a date night, yet simple enough for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: A dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the shrimp

1. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the garlic cream sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
2. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide the pasta between plates and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Vegetable addition: Include spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheesy upgrade: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Gruyère for an extra creamy texture.
• Protein swap: Use chicken, scallops, or tofu instead of shrimp.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the cream sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are classic choices, but any pasta works well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from heat immediately.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Absolutely! Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and let it reduce slightly before adding the cream.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can omit them for a milder flavor.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water if needed.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead, but reheat it gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp before serving.

What’s the best way to garnish this dish?

Fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice enhance the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a luxurious dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Customize it to suit your taste and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Try it tonight for a dish that’s creamy, garlicky, and utterly delicious!

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