If you love the irresistible combination of tender shrimp and rich, velvety sauce, then this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s the perfect balance of garlicky warmth and creamy indulgence enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, making every bite a celebration of comforting Italian-American flavors. Simple, quick, and unbelievably delicious, this dish brings restaurant-quality charm right into your kitchen, ready to impress family or friends without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe starts with straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. Every item is chosen not only for flavor but also to create a harmonious texture and a beautiful color palette that will make your dish both mouthwatering and visually inviting.
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta: The perfect canvas to soak up the luscious garlic cream sauce.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender, juicy shrimp add a satisfying seafood punch and protein boost.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a gentle sauté that locks in flavors without overpowering.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The heart of the dish, delivering that bold, aromatic garlic essence.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, rich base that gives the sauce its irresistible creaminess.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, savory depth and promotes shelf-stable richness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enhances richness and helps meld flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick to contrast the creamy sauce and excite your palate.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To season and bring all the flavors into balance.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked for a mild heat and earthiness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color at the finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water, then cook your fettuccine or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures that your pasta has just the right firm bite to stand up to the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to absorb all the delicious flavors later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Lay the shrimp in a single layer for an even sear, cooking them for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking keeps them tender and juicy. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside – they’ll rejoin the party once the sauce is ready.
Step 3: Build Your Creamy Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt butter to pick up all those flavorful brown bits left by the shrimp. Add the minced garlic and sauté for only about 30 seconds – enough to release its heavenly scent without burning it. Then pour in the heavy cream, stirring in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes so it thickens up just right.
Step 4: Make it Irresistibly Cheesy
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. This step transforms the sauce into a velvety, cheesy dream. The cheese melts fully, enriching both flavor and texture, creating that mouth-coating silkiness you’ll love.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Pasta
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, letting them warm through for another 1 to 2 minutes. Then add your cooked pasta, tossing everything together until each strand is luxuriously coated with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an extra minute to meld all the flavors and heat everything through evenly.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top not only brightens the plate with a pop of green but also adds a fresh, herbaceous layer that complements the richness of the dish. For a little extra wow factor, a twist of lemon zest or a dash of extra Parmesan never hurts.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or a side of roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrients. Don’t forget some crusty artisan bread – perfect for mopping up every last bit of that dreamy garlic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the creamy garlic shrimp pasta in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkling of chili flakes for color contrast. Or plate it on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and more parsley for a family-style feast that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers of the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the sauce’s smooth texture, give the pasta a gentle stir and add a splash of cream or milk before reheating.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and pasta separately as the sauce can sometimes separate upon thawing. Store cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container and pasta in a separate bag, then thaw both overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a little cream, milk, or broth helps restore the sauce’s luxurious texture and prevents it from drying out or becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or linguine are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will work beautifully. Choose your favorite pasta shape for a personal touch.
What if I’m not a fan of spicy food?
The red pepper flakes are completely optional. You can leave them out if you prefer a milder version, and the dish will still be wonderfully flavorful and creamy.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cream for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind the texture and richness will be a bit less indulgent, but still delicious!
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Shrimp cook quickly and are done once they turn pink and opaque with a firm texture. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep an eye on them during that 1 to 2-minute per side window.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms make fantastic additions for extra flavor, color, and nutrition without overpowering the main creamy garlic shrimp flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe never fails to impress, thanks to its rich sauce, fresh ingredients, and straightforward approach. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting friends, it delivers a comforting yet elegant meal that is easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it holds a special place in so many hearts and kitchens!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic-infused creamy Parmesan sauce, tossed with perfectly al dente fettuccine or linguine. A quick and easy stovetop meal that blends bold flavors and comforting textures, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown to avoid bitterness.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce. Simmer everything together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to ensure the shrimp are heated through and infused with the creamy garlic flavor.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every strand in the luscious sauce. Cook for 1 minute more, warming the pasta through and marrying all the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic shrimp pasta.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter creamy sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor, texture, and color.
- Pair the dish with crusty bread and a green salad for a balanced and complete meal.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
