If you’re craving a dish that feels luxurious but comes together in a flash, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender shrimp bathed in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce, all clinging lovingly to perfectly cooked linguine. It’s the kind of meal that both comforts and impresses, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd. Every bite offers a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that will have you swooning — trust me, you’re going to want this on your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the silky linguine to the pop of fresh parsley, every component adds its own special touch to the dish’s layered flavor and irresistible texture.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: Provides the perfect canvas for soaking up the creamy garlic sauce without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness that helps the shrimp cook evenly and golden.
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided: For that extra silky mouthfeel and delicious depth in both the shrimp and sauce.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein — tender, juicy, and quick-cooking for convenience.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overshadowing the delicate shrimp.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild warmth and balance to the dish’s creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Gives an extra layer of seafood-savory goodness, though smoked paprika or Cajun spice work beautifully here too.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: The soul of the dish — aromatic, pungent, and simply irresistible when sautéed.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, thick sauce that envelops every bite.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated: Melts in to bring a nutty, salty finish that complements the garlic and shrimp perfectly.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, fresh herbal note and gorgeous color contrast.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by boiling your linguine according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente — that perfect tender-but-firm bite. This ensures your pasta will hold up beautifully when tossed with the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up that luscious garlic shrimp sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter. Once melted and sizzling, season your shrimp with salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning if you’re using it, then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque — be careful not to overcook, or they’ll become rubbery. After they’re perfectly cooked, remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining half tablespoon of butter and your minced garlic. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, which unlocks that iconic garlic aroma you want wrapped around every forkful. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, then let it gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This soft simmer thickens the cream without curdling it, setting the stage for a silky sauce.
Step 4: Stir in Parmesan
Now sprinkle in your grated parmesan and stir continuously until it melts completely. This step transforms the cream into a rich, smooth, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to the shrimp and pasta. The cheese not only thickens the sauce but adds an unforgettable umami punch.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then toss in the drained linguine. Gently but thoroughly toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated in that creamy, garlicky goodness. This is where the magic really happens, and the ingredients become one irresistibly delicious meal.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Sprinkle over the chopped fresh parsley just before serving to add a beautiful pop of color and a hint of freshness that perfectly balances the richness. It’s a simple touch that elevates the dish, making it look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh parsley, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of brightness or heat. A few extra shavings of parmesan right at the table can also add an extra layer of indulgence that guests will appreciate.
Side Dishes
This creamy, garlicky pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm baguette slices are perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans bring welcome freshness and texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls to show off the shrimp and creamy sauce. For a dinner party, garnish with whole parsley sprigs or edible flowers for a touch of elegance. You can also portion it onto individual plates with a little parmesan fan on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation that feels special yet effortless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp pasta keeps nicely for up to 2 days, though best enjoyed fresh. After sitting, you might find the sauce thickens, so a quick stir while reheating will bring it back to silky perfection.
Freezing
Because this recipe involves cream and delicate shrimp, freezing is not ideal as the texture and consistency may change. If you must freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of milk or cream while warming helps restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can unevenly heat the shrimp and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great for this recipe. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture diluting the sauce.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or vegan?
You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor. Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based twist that’s equally satisfying.
How do I prevent the cream sauce from splitting?
Keep the heat moderate when adding cream and avoid boiling vigorously after adding the cheese. Gentle simmering and constant stirring ensure the sauce stays smooth and luscious.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can be stirred in towards the end of cooking for added color, texture, and nutrition without overpowering the creamy garlic shrimp flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a homemade Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe to uplift an ordinary day into something special. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, marrying fresh ingredients with comforting flavors in a way that feels both elegant and down-to-earth. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own — once you do, it’s guaranteed to become one of your go-to favorites, just like it is mine.
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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-American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for seafood lovers. Juicy shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce are tossed with linguine and a rich, creamy parmesan sauce, then topped with fresh parsley for a flavorful and satisfying dish ready in just 25 minutes.
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)
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 Pasta: Cook linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp and sauce.
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning if using. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Make 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.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the linguine pasta. Toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy garlic shrimp sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute Old Bay seasoning with smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning depending on your spice preference.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream or swap for half-and-half.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture, but frozen shrimp works well if thawed properly.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, as the pasta may absorb the sauce if left to sit.
