why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp and tender pasta, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.

how to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients :

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340g) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
1/2 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

Directions :

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the shrimp: In a bowl, season shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the garlic cream sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce if needed. Return shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
Serve: Divide pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is best served hot. It pairs well with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the creamy goodness with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a touch of fresh parsley on top.

how to store Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop. You can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy texture.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Make sure to not overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
For added flavor, consider using a splash of white wine in the sauce.

variation (if any)

You can easily make variations to this dish. For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream. You can add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra vegetables. If you like it spicy, increase the red pepper flakes. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. For a lemon-garlic twist, add more lemon juice and zest.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce may be less creamy.

3. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! You can include vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to make it more nutritious and colorful. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta