Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Step 4: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Combine the shrimp and sauce with the cooked pasta, tossing well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh lemon juice or zest to add brightness to the sauce.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but expect slightly less richness.
• Add fresh parsley or basil on top for a fresh herbal note.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture in the sauce.

What type of pasta works best for creamy garlic shrimp pasta?

Pasta shapes like fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti hold the creamy sauce nicely, but feel free to use your favorite variety or whatever you have on hand.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 125 reviews

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic cream sauce, tossed with tender pasta and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta

Shrimp and Protein

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy garlic sauce.
6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed and patted dry.
• Reserve some pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred over pre-grated for better melting and flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Keywords: garlic shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, Italian pasta recipes, quick pasta dinner, shrimp pasta with cream sauce