Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A Lusciously Rich and Comforting Pasta Dish with Succulent Shrimp and Garlic-Infused Cream Sauce

When you’re craving a creamy, savory, and satisfying pasta dish that’s both elegant and easy to make, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta checks all the boxes. This dish brings together tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a silky garlic-Parmesan cream sauce for a dinner that feels indulgent yet takes under 30 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will impress without the stress.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish in 30 minutes or less.

• One-Pan Sauce: The garlic cream sauce comes together in one skillet.

• High Protein: With a generous helping of shrimp, it’s satisfying and protein-packed.

• Restaurant Quality: Tastes like it came from a fine dining menu, but made right in your kitchen.

 Ingredients (US Measurements)

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious creamy shrimp pasta:

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta (about 2 cups dry)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins: Red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or baby spinach can be added for variation.

 Preparation Time

 Calories

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Each serving contains roughly:

• Calories: 600 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 55g

These values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down each part of the recipe for perfect execution.

 Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.

2. Add a generous pinch of salt (about 1 tablespoon) to the water — this enhances the flavor of the pasta.

3. Drop in 8 oz of fettuccine or linguine and stir.

4. Cook until al dente, as per package directions (typically 8–10 minutes).

5. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under warm water to prevent sticking.

6. Set aside while you prepare the sauce and shrimp.

Pro Tip: Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water in case your sauce needs thinning later.

 Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. Pat the 1 lb shrimp dry with a paper towel for better searing.

2. Season shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.

4. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

5. Remove shrimp from the skillet and place on a plate. Cover lightly to keep warm.

Pro Tip: Do not overcook the shrimp — they cook fast! Overcooking makes them rubbery.

 Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

2. Add 1 tbsp butter and let it melt.

3. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute, until aromatic (don’t burn it!).

4. Pour in ½ cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Slowly whisk in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan — it melts more smoothly and gives the sauce better texture.

 Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Add the cooked pasta to the garlic-Parmesan cream sauce in the skillet.

2. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce.

3. Add the sautéed shrimp back to the skillet.

4. Mix everything together over low heat for 1–2 minutes, just until everything is warmed through and well combined.

Optional: Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.

 Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

2. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Optional Garnish Ideas: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or zest adds brightness and cuts the richness of the sauce.

 Tips & Tricks for Success

 Shrimp Selection

• Use raw shrimp (not pre-cooked) for the best texture and flavor.

• Tail-on or tail-off is up to you, but tail-off is easier for eating.

 Cream Consistency

• Don’t let the cream boil — just simmer it gently.

• Add cheese off heat if needed to prevent curdling.

 Add Veggies

This pasta is a blank canvas. Try adding:

• Baby spinach – Stir it into the sauce to wilt it slightly.

• Sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a tangy sweetness.

• Roasted red peppers – For a smoky depth of flavor.

• Mushrooms – Sauté before making the sauce for extra umami.

 Spice It Up

• Add red pepper flakes for heat.

• Stir in a bit of paprika or Old Bay seasoning with the shrimp for a Southern twist.

 Make It a Meal

Pair your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with:

• A fresh Caesar salad

• Crunchy garlic bread

• A chilled glass of white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)

 How to Prepare the Recipe (Recap)

1. Boil pasta until al dente and set aside.

2. Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink and remove.

3. Make the sauce by melting butter, cooking garlic, adding cream and Parmesan.

4. Combine pasta and shrimp with the sauce in the skillet.

5. Garnish and serve hot with fresh parsley and optional lemon zest.

 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Not recommended — cream sauces often split when frozen and reheated.

• Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

 Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a recipe that balances elegance and simplicity. It’s luxurious enough for special occasions but easy enough for weeknight cooking. With just a few ingredients, you can bring bold flavors to your plate in under 30 minutes. The tender shrimp and rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce cling perfectly to every strand of pasta, creating a dish that’s impossible to resist.

This dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen — and once you try it, you’ll see why!