If you’re craving a meal that’s both indulgent and cooked up in a flash, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, tossed perfectly with al dente linguine and sprinkled with fresh parsley. It’s a dish that brings restaurant-quality elegance right to your own kitchen without a fuss, making it a go-to weeknight winner or special dinner treat for friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity — each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and a lovely balance of richness and freshness. From the shrimp to the fresh parsley, every element matters.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: This pasta holds sauce beautifully while cooking to a satisfying al dente texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a fruity base for sautéing shrimp and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided: Adds richness and helps develop that irresistible silky sauce.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that turns this pasta into a hearty, seafood sensation.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning that brings out the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Offers a classic seafood spice blend, but smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning work just as well.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Delivers that punch of aromatic warmth that complements creamy dishes perfectly.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious texture that defines this pasta’s creamy character.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce adding sharp, savory notes and a velvety finish.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens and balances the dish with a fresh herbal touch.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. This ensures a firm bite that perfectly complements the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside—getting your base ready!
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning if you’re using it, then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking preserves their tenderness and flavor. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining half tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic just until fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds—don’t let it brown or you’ll lose that bright garlic flavor. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the cream cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and soak up those garlicky flavors.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce with Cheese
Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts fully into the sauce, creating a smooth and luscious texture that clings beautifully to both the shrimp and pasta. This cheese not only enriches the sauce but adds that irresistible umami depth that keeps you coming back for more.
Step 5: Combine and Toss
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained linguine. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure every strand of pasta is generously coated in that creamy, garlicky sauce. This step is the magic that melds all flavors into one harmonious dish.
Step 6: Add a Fresh Finish
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. This simple garnish adds a pop of color and a lively herbal note that balances the richness of the creamy sauce perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic topper, but for a little extra zing, try a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few red pepper flakes. These simple touches enhance the freshness and add layers of vibrant flavor that will impress anyone at your table.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, some roasted vegetables, or even a slice of crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that heavenly sauce. Think balance—something light and refreshing to complement all that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual bowls with a whole shrimp perched artfully on top. Or try plating it with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture. Presentation can elevate a simple meal into a memorable experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover creamy garlic shrimp pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep wonderfully for up to 2 days. Since the sauce is cream-based, try to consume it sooner rather than later to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing cream-based sauces isn’t always recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze the shrimp and pasta separately. Defrost in the fridge overnight when ready to eat, then gently reheat and stir together for a tasty quick meal. Keep in mind the sauce might separate slightly; whisking in a splash of cream or milk during reheating can help restore creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from breaking. Slow and steady wins the reheating race here to maintain that silky texture and delicious flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly and can be added straight from frozen or thawed beforehand. Just be sure to pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in your pan, which helps the shrimp sear nicely.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy but still flavorful.
Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
Not at all! Old Bay adds a signature seafood spice, but smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, or even just salt and pepper work just fine to season the shrimp deliciously.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the linguine for a gluten-free pasta, like rice or corn-based varieties. Just cook according to package instructions for best results.
How long does the dish take to prepare?
From start to finish, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe takes about 25 minutes, making it an ideal option for a speedy yet impressive meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and special about this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe. It’s rich but not overpowering, quick to whip up but sophisticated enough for company. Trust me, once you try making this dish, it’ll quickly become one of your cherished favorites to reach for whenever you want to indulge in a little creamy, garlicky heaven on a plate.
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and indulgent dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp are sautéed with garlic and a blend of seasonings, then tossed in a luscious cream and parmesan sauce with perfectly cooked linguine. Garnished with fresh parsley, this flavorful pasta recipe combines rich, savory, and fresh elements for a satisfying meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 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)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided
- 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 the Linguine: Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp seasoned with salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned, releasing the garlic’s aroma.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained linguine. Toss all ingredients together thoroughly so that the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute Old Bay seasoning with smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for different flavor profiles.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- This recipe works well with other types of pasta such as fettuccine or spaghetti.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
