Go Back
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of heavy cream with the succulence of shrimp, all enveloped in a luscious garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a comforting meal at home. In this article, we will delve into the ingredients, preparation methods, and variations of this dish, ensuring that you can recreate this culinary masterpiece with ease.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta in 30 Minutes

Looking to impress with a deliciously creamy dish? Discover how to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a flavorful combination of succulent shrimp and rich garlic sauce enveloped in creamy goodness. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Learn the essential ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Elevate your cooking with this mouthwatering pasta dish!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Zest of 1 lemon (optional but recommended)

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, making sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and season them with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaquely cooked. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

      Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for approximately 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it burn, which can impart a bitter taste.

        Incorporate Cream and Broth: Carefully pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring the mixture to combine the flavors. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, letting it heat through.

          Thicken the Sauce: Gradually incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering sauce, whisking continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce achieves a rich and creamy consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until reaching your desired consistency.

            Combine the Ingredients: Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the dish and taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

              Serve and Garnish: Plate the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta in shallow bowls or on a platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and lemon zest (if using) for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings