If you’re dreaming about a luxurious dinner that comes together quickly but feels truly special, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your answer. Imagine twirls of silky fettuccine, plump shrimp glistening in a garlicky cream sauce, and the irresistible aroma of fresh parsley and lemon wafting from your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight at home or a celebratory meal, this dish brings comfort and elegance to the table with minimal fuss. The layers of flavor—from the rich Parmesan to the zing of lemon—make every bite feel like a tiny vacation to the Italian coast.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is built on simple, smartly chosen ingredients that each play a starring role. From the juicy shrimp to the fresh parsley, every component adds to the overall flavor, texture, or color, making the finished dish truly memorable.

Fettuccine or linguine pasta (12 oz): These long noodles beautifully capture the luscious sauce—use your favorite, but fettuccine’s width is especially satisfying here.
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): Go for big, juicy shrimp for the best texture and flavor; fresh or thawed frozen both work well.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Gives the shrimp a light, flavorful sear without overpowering their sweetness.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce—opt for unsalted so you control the saltiness.
Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The backbone of the sauce; freshly minced garlic infuses every bite with warmth and aroma.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings the luxurious, velvety consistency you crave in a cream sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts right in for nutty, salty flavor and thickness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for boosting all the other flavors.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A background note of mild heat and balance.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who love a gentle tingle of heat; add as much or as little as you like.
Chopped parsley (2 tablespoons): Fresh and grassy, parsley adds color and a burst of herby brightness.
Juice of ½ lemon: The final squeeze ties everything together with freshness and zing.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Stir well to keep it from sticking, and cook until al dente—firm to the bite, but not mushy. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is your secret weapon for perfecting the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

As the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Let them sizzle for 1–2 minutes per side until they’re pink, opaque, and just curled. Avoid overcooking—they should be tender, not rubbery. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to rinse—those flavorful shrimp bits are gold!), melt the butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but never browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan, additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce bubble for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Add the drained pasta to the sauce right in the skillet, using tongs to turn and coat every strand. If the sauce looks thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it into a silky consistency. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss for another minute, letting all the flavors meld and the shrimp heat through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Just before serving, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley. Give it one more gentle toss so those final, bright flavors are woven throughout. Serve your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta straight from the pan, letting the aromas and creamy sauce set the stage for an unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds color and freshness, while an extra dusting of Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes gives each plate a little extra dimension. For a finishing touch, try a twist of cracked black pepper and a wedge of lemon on the side—let your guests customize each bite.

Side Dishes

This luscious pasta craves some crispness on the side. Toss together a simple green salad with vinaigrette, or offer roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli for vibrant balance. Pillowy garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a restaurant-style look, twirl individual portions of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta onto shallow bowls and top with shrimp, a lemon slice, and a parsley sprig. You can also serve it family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe, or divide into ramekins for a chic, small-plate appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will continue to mingle, but for the best texture, plan to eat soon—shrimp and cream sauces are always at their best fresh.

Freezing

While you can freeze Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta in a pinch, the sauce may separate after thawing. If you do freeze, cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and eat within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the pasta over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir often and keep a close eye so the shrimp doesn’t overcook. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. Properly thawed frozen shrimp work beautifully and let you enjoy this dish any time of year.

Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, and use less butter if you prefer. The sauce will be thinner but still full of garlicky, cheesy goodness.

What pasta shapes work best?

Fettuccine and linguine really cling to the creamy sauce, but you can also use spaghetti, tagliatelle, or even short pastas like penne for a fun twist.

How spicy will it be with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, not an overwhelming heat. If you’re sensitive, start with a pinch, and if you love spice, feel free to add more!

Can I add vegetables to Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Definitely—spinach, peas, or asparagus all make fantastic additions. Stir in at the end just until heated through for a boost of color, flavor, and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like gathering around the table with a big bowl of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta. This recipe delivers on flavor, comfort, and just a hint of luxury, no matter the day. Give it a try soon—you’ll be amazed how quickly it disappears!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 19 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a delightful meal with this creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe. Succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a luscious cream sauce come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta

Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
juice of ½ lemon

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Cook the shrimp: Sear shrimp in olive oil until pink; set aside.
Make the sauce: Sauté garlic, add cream, Parmesan, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened.
Combine: Toss pasta in sauce, adding shrimp. Heat through, then garnish and serve.