Description
This Creamy Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal combining tender shrimp with a rich, garlicky cream sauce tossed with fettuccine or linguine pasta. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, it features a luscious blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, enhanced with a touch of lemon and fresh parsley for brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté the garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the cream sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the same skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly while stirring occasionally.
- Add the Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and shrimp: Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Finish with lemon and parsley: Stir in the juice of half a lemon and chopped fresh parsley to brighten the flavors.
- Serve: Plate the creamy shrimp pasta immediately, optionally garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the shrimp is not overcooked to keep it tender.
- Fresh parsley adds color and freshness; substitute with basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
