Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Description

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a rich, comforting, and flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce served over al dente  pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic meal, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the pasta:

12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine

Salt (for boiling water)

For the shrimp:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp unsalted butter

Salt & pepper to taste

½ tsp paprika (optional)

For the creamy garlic sauce:

2 tbsp unsalted olive oil

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp Italian seasoning

Salt & pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water. Set aside.

2. Cook the shrimp:

Pat shrimp dry. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

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

Add shrimp and saute for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.

Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Make the sauce:

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not brown).

Pour in the broth and simmer for 1–2 minutes.

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning.

Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust with salt and pepper.

If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.

4. Combine everything:

Return cooked shrimp to the sauce.

Add the drained pasta and toss until coated.

Cook 1–2 minutes on low to let flavors combine.

5. Serve:

Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve hot with garlic bread or a green  salad.

Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values)

Calories: 620 kcal

Protein: 32g

Fat: 32g

Carbohydrates: 50g

Fiber: 2g

Sugars: 3g

Sodium: 620mg

Cholesterol: 220mg

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

A: Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of flour or cream cheese for thickness.

Q: What pasta works best?

A: Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well. Even penne or rotini can be used.

Q: Is this dish spicy?

A: Not by default, but you can make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes.

Q: Can I add vegetables?

A: Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

Q: How long does it keep?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat g

ently with a splash of cream or milk.