If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances rich flavors with a cozy, comforting feel, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, twirled with al dente linguine, creates a symphony of taste and texture that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and joy to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor. Each component plays a vital role—from the succulent shrimp adding protein and seafood sweetness, to the parmesan cheese delivering that irresistible creamy tang, and fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: A perfect pasta shape to soak up the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity base for cooking shrimp.
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided: Contributes a rich, silky texture to both shrimp and sauce.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, providing delicate, juicy bites.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Brings a subtle spice and complexity; smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning are great alternatives.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with that signature aromatic warmth.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and shrimp.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated: Adds cheesy richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Lifts the dish with fresh herbal notes and vibrant color.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, which means just tender with a little bite left. This ensures the pasta won’t get mushy when tossed with the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain well and set aside, keeping the pasta ready to soak up all those delightful flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This combo creates a flavorful cooking base that sears the shrimp beautifully. Season your shrimp with salt, pepper, and optional Old Bay seasoning for that hint of bold spice. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes per side, and then set them aside. This quick cooking locks in their juiciness and prevents overcooking.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Stir it gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned — this step releases a mouthwatering garlic aroma that’s the backbone of the sauce. Then pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to let it thicken up just right.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce with Parmesan
Stir in the grated parmesan cheese slowly until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This step gives the dish its signature creamy texture and adds a slight nuttiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Pasta
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained linguine. Toss everything together carefully, ensuring every strand of pasta is coated with the luscious cream sauce and the shrimp are evenly distributed. This makes sure every forkful delivers perfectly balanced flavor and texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish. This finishing touch brightens the flavors and adds a lovely pop of color that makes the meal even more inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish here, adding a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the sauce. For a little extra zest, a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving can bring a lively brightness that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, as it refreshes the palate between bites. Alternatively, warm garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable medley complements the creamy shrimp pasta without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, try serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with whole parsley sprigs and a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Adding a few cherry tomato halves not only brightens the plate visually but introduces a sweet contrast that highlights the savory cream sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer the pasta and shrimp into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe without wasting any delicious bites.
Freezing
While freezing shrimp pasta can sometimes affect texture, it’s possible with careful preparation. Store the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened excessively. This will help restore the silky texture and keep the shrimp tender without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can be great substitutes. Just make sure to cook your chosen pasta to al dente for the best texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but the sauce may not be quite as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream is a suitable choice, adding a subtle sweetness that partners nicely with the shrimp.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Frozen shrimp that’s already peeled and deveined works perfectly for this recipe. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely and don’t release excess water.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or use spicy seasoning blends instead of Old Bay for an extra kick that enhances the dish’s bold flavors.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Allow the sauce to simmer a little longer before adding the parmesan, which will help reduce and thicken it naturally. Alternatively, stirring in a small amount of cornstarch slurry can create a thicker consistency without altering the flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe a try—you’ll discover just how quickly basic ingredients combine into a spectacular meal that feels luxurious yet wonderfully approachable. It’s a recipe that warms the heart and delights the senses every single time. So grab your skillet and pasta pot, and let’s make dinner something to really celebrate!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta combines tender shrimp sautéed with garlic in a luscious parmesan and heavy cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. It’s a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that delivers rich, comforting flavors with a hint of spice from Old Bay seasoning, garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (frozen is fine)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional; can substitute smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Sauce
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
- ½ cup (40 grams) parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Linguine: Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until melted and hot.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet along with salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning if using. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained linguine. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish before serving immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, substitute Old Bay seasoning with Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to prevent sauce separation.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
