What’s better than a comforting bowl of pasta that’s loaded with succulent shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and a hint of parmesan cheese?
Whether you’re short on time or craving restaurant-quality flavors, this creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe will be your go-to.
Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
Let’s dive into the easiest, most flavorful pasta recipe you’ll ever make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy garlic shrimp pasta:
- Pasta: 12 ounces of spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works best.
- Shrimp: 1 pound of raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Tail-on or tail-off, your choice.
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced for that aromatic base.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the shrimp.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated for optimal flavor.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon to keep the pasta from sticking.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Optional Add-ins: Red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or fresh parsley for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp, making sure everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes, and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly! Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on the clock.
- Fresh Parmesan is Key: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well. Use freshly grated parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency while making it cling to the pasta.
- Make it Your Own: Add a splash of white wine, lemon zest, or your favorite herbs for extra depth.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This pasta is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make the meal even better:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. For a recipe click here.
- Crisp Caesar Salad: Adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make great additions.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Protein Swaps: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or tofu.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning for heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them beforehand by running them under cold water or leaving them in the fridge overnight.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy sauce and mild flavors make it a hit with kids. You can skip the red pepper flakes for a more family-friendly dish.
25-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners – ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off)
- 4-5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Red pepper flakes
- lemon juice
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Everything
- Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes, and serve immediately.