Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or spaghetti; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Juice of 1/2 lemon

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a wonderful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and creamy sauce with succulent shrimp. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
8 oz (225g) fettuccine or spaghetti
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and squeeze in lemon juice. Toss gently to combine everything.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Serve the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot, right from the skillet. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only adds color but also enhances the flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough.
You can adjust the amount of garlic depending on your preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add more!
Fresh pasta will cook faster than dried pasta, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra nutrients. Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, or use a dairy-free option like coconut milk, though this will change the flavor.

3. How long does it take to make the pasta?
Cooking the pasta usually takes around 8-10 minutes, but check the package instructions for exact timing.

Enjoy making this easy and delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta that will surely impress your family and friends!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta