If you have a craving for something indulgent yet surprisingly easy to whip up, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe will instantly become your new favorite. It’s a delightful marriage of succulent shrimp tossed in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, all clinging to perfectly cooked linguine. Every bite bursts with rich, comforting flavors that come together in a way that feels both luxurious and homey. Whether you’re cooking for a special night or just need a quick dinner fix, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe keeps things beautifully simple but relies on each ingredient to create that perfect depth of flavor and texture. From the tender shrimp to the creamy sauce enriched with parmesan and garlic, every component has a role that can’t be skipped.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: Choose linguine for its wonderful ability to hold onto creamy sauces while providing a nice bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle fruitiness and helps cook the shrimp beautifully without sticking.
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided: Butter contributes richness and helps build a luscious sauce that’s hard to resist.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp adds delicate, sweet seafood flavor and a satisfying texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering anything.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a gentle warmth and spice to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Perfect for adding a touch of complexity and subtle heat, but smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning are great alternatives.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic brings that classic aromatic punch that keeps this dish tasting heavenly.
- ½ cup heavy cream: The key to that silky, dreamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, nutty dimension and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley lifts the dish with a pop of vibrant color and a hint of brightness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine Pasta
Start by boiling the linguine until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning it still has a nice slight bite to it. This is important because the pasta will continue to soak up the creamy sauce later, so you don’t want it too soft. Once cooked, drain and set aside but don’t overdo the rinsing; a little starch helps the sauce cling better.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and bubbling, add the raw shrimp along with salt, pepper, and that optional Old Bay seasoning that adds a gentle kick. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn that perfect opaque pink. Remove them from the skillet so they don’t overcook later.
Step 3: Infuse Garlic in Butter
Drop in the remaining half tablespoon of butter into the same skillet and add the minced garlic. Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will make anyone eager to dig in.
Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. The cream will melt into that buttery, garlicky base, bringing a rich, velvety body to the sauce that’s utterly comforting.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and keep mixing until it dissolves and the sauce becomes smooth and luscious. The parmesan not only thickens the sauce but also generously ups the flavor with its nutty, savory character.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the linguine pasta. Toss everything together carefully so that the pasta is fully coated with the creamy garlic sauce and the shrimp are evenly distributed. This step is where the dish truly comes together into one harmonious, indulgent meal.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note that balances the creaminess perfectly. Serve immediately to enjoy every bit of this delightful dish at its best.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A light garnish can elevate the experience greatly. Fresh parsley adds a bright finish, while a little extra grated parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon can add brightness and contrast to the rich cream sauce. Cracked black pepper on top provides a subtle bite that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are perfect companions for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, can add color and nutrients for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this dish in shallow bowls so the generous sauce pools invitingly around the pasta and shrimp. You can also plate the shrimp on top of the pasta, garnishing with parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil or chili flakes for those who like a bit of heat. Setting a sprig of fresh herbs on the side adds a finishing touch that feels restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will absorb more sauce as it rests, so you might want to add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to keep it luscious.
Freezing
Freezing pasta with cream sauce can be tricky because the texture might change slightly upon thawing, but if you must freeze, do so without mixing the shrimp and pasta. Freeze them separately to preserve texture and reheat gently. This way, you maintain the integrity of both components and avoid a grainy sauce.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce separate. Slow, careful reheating will revive the dish closest to its original glory.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking and pat them dry to ensure they sear properly and develop a nice texture.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. Keep in mind this will change the flavor slightly but remain delicious.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely. While linguine works best for its sauce-holding ability and texture, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can work beautifully depending on your preference.
How spicy is the dish with Old Bay seasoning?
Old Bay adds a mild kick with a blend of spices that isn’t overwhelming. If you like it spicier, you can add Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. Make sure your skillet is large enough to toss everything together without overcrowding for best results.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe that makes it a standout meal any day of the week. It feels indulgent without demanding hours in the kitchen, and it brings guests back to the table with smiles every time. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe repertoire!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish combining tender sautéed shrimp with a rich, garlicky cream sauce tossed with linguine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal, it features savory flavors from Old Bay seasoning and parmesan cheese with fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Sauce and Garnish
- 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 Pasta: Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Heat Fat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until melted and hot.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp along with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the cream slightly thickens.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts fully and the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained linguine. Toss everything together ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a spicier flavor, substitute Old Bay seasoning with Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika.
- You can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best texture and flavor.
- To make it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though sauce will be less rich.
