Looking for a delicious way to combine seafood and beef in one satisfying meal? This creamy shrimp beef spaghetti is just what you need. The rich, velvety sauce coats perfectly cooked pasta, while tender shrimp and beef add a unique surf-and-turf twist you’ll want to make again and again.
Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this shrimp beef spaghetti recipe is quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for special dinners. Let’s dive into how you can make this tasty dish in under 45 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines tender shrimp and juicy beef for a flavorful surf-and-turf experience.
- The creamy sauce is rich but balanced with garlic and herbs.
- Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Serves 4, great for families or leftovers.
- Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make the creamy shrimp beef spaghetti. Fresh shrimp and lean beef provide protein, while the sauce blends cream, garlic, and Parmesan for richness.
- 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
- 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ounces lean beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
How to Make Spaghetti with Shrimp and Beef in Creamy Sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove beef from skillet and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes, turning once. Remove shrimp and set aside with the beef.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
- Return the beef and shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Stir in chopped parsley, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the shrimp or beef to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smoother sauce texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency easily.
- Make sure to sauté garlic and onions gently to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Fresh parsley brightens the dish—add it just before serving for color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover shrimp beef spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the texture of shrimp may change slightly after freezing, so reheating gently is key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of sirloin?
Yes, ground beef works as a substitute but will give the dish a different texture and flavor. Brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding the sauce and shrimp.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal for even cooking. Medium-sized shrimp work well to balance with the beef and pasta.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the beef and shrimp in advance and store separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta and sauce right before serving for best taste and texture.
