Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you are craving a dish that’s both indulgent and packed with flavor, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked shrimp swimming in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, all tossed with al dente linguine that soaks up every bit of the savory goodness. This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and bright, fresh herbs, making it ideal for a cozy dinner that feels special yet comes together in less than half an hour. Whether you’re cooking for friends or treating yourself, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying experience every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, creamy texture, and appealing color. With pantry staples and fresh elements, you’ll find that these ingredients come together effortlessly to make an impressive meal.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: Provides a silky base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the shrimp evenly.
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided: Brings richness and helps develop that irresistible garlic flavor.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and quick to cook for a perfectly juicy bite.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Introduces a flavorful kick, but smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning work wonderfully too.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: The flavor powerhouse that infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its indulgently smooth and creamy texture.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce to add umami richness and a bit of tang.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This means the pasta will be tender but still have a slight bite, allowing it to hold up beautifully once mixed with the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside—this is your comforting, slurp-worthy foundation.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and your choice of Old Bay seasoning (or a smoky substitute). Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once perfectly cooked, remove them from the skillet to keep them tender and juicy.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to avoid any bitterness. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it begins to thicken, setting the stage for that signature creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine
Stir in your grated parmesan until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a perfectly velvety coating. Then, return the shrimp to the pan and add your cooked linguine. Toss everything together with care, ensuring each strand of pasta is drenched in the luscious garlic cream and every shrimp is enveloped in flavor. This step marries all the ingredients into one harmonious dish.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. Not only does it add a lovely burst of color, but it also brings a fresh, herby element that brightens every forkful.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish visually and flavor-wise, consider adding a sprinkle of extra parmesan, a twist of freshly cracked black pepper, or a few lemon wedges on the side. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add layers of flavor and excitement.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides. A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add a lovely textural contrast and freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your creamy garlic shrimp pasta in warm bowls to keep it cozy and inviting. For an elegant touch, nestle the pasta in the center and top with a sprig of parsley or a lemon twist. You could even offer toasted garlic bread on the side for dipping into every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp and sauce keep well, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezing
While the shrimp pasta can be frozen, the texture of the shrimp and pasta may change slightly upon thawing. If you want to freeze, do so in a sealed container for up to 1 month, and try to freeze before combining pasta and sauce for better quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the shrimp from overcooking and turning rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is delightful for this dish, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work beautifully because they all hold creamy sauces well and provide excellent texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cooking shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque is key. Overcooking even by a minute can make them tough. Keep a close eye during sautéing and remove them promptly to maintain their tender texture.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sliced mushrooms while preparing the sauce can introduce extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them briefly before adding the cream for best results.
What is the best way to reheat this pasta without losing creaminess?
Reheat slowly on the stove with a little extra cream or broth added to refresh the sauce. Stir gently and avoid high heat to keep the sauce smooth and shrimp tender.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate — comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that delivers that rich creamy texture alongside delicate, garlicky shrimp. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and watch it become a delightful staple in your kitchen. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something so memorable and comforting.
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and flavorful creamy garlic shrimp pasta made with succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and tossed with linguine in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion, delivering a perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta
For the Shrimp and Sauce
- 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
- 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 the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning if using. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until 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 completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked linguine. Toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy garlic sauce and shrimp are well distributed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta just before serving for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- The Old Bay seasoning adds a classic seafood flavor but can be substituted with smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for variation.
- Be careful not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Double the parsley for a more vibrant, fresh taste and color.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
