Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne); 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and elegance with ease, the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender shrimp swimming in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta to create a harmony of flavors and textures that feels indulgent yet simple. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress without the fuss. It’s one of those recipes that quickly becomes a favorite—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for cooking pasta, all laid out neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a bunch of fresh green parsley on the left side, next to two bright yellow lemons. Small clear bowls hold ingredients such as black pepper, garlic cloves, olive oil, butter, grated cheese, a creamy white powder, and a light sauce. On the right side, there is a bundle of uncooked yellow spaghetti and a white bowl filled with peeled shrimp. Everything is arranged in rows, giving a clean and organized look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these ingredients is super straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the rich texture, bold flavors, and inviting colors of the dish. Nothing fancy, just essential staples that bring out the best in every bite.

12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne): Your base for this creamy wonder, choose your favorite shape for the perfect sauce cling.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, these jewels add that sweet, succulent seafood goodness.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every ingredient shine.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth that balances the creaminess.
½ tsp paprika: For a subtle smokiness and beautiful color on the shrimp.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the shrimp perfectly and adds fruity richness.
3 tbsp butter: Creates a luscious base for the garlic and sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star aroma that lifts the entire dish with its fragrant punch.
1 cup heavy cream: Provides the silky, dreamy texture that makes this pasta truly creamy.
½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light and flavorful, cutting through some richness.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, nutty backbone of the sauce, best if freshly grated.
½ tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle herbaceous note to tie everything together.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a touch of heat for those who like a little kick.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the plate and adds a fresh, green pop to finish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your chosen pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining it—this starchy water is magic for smoothing out the sauce later.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, give your shrimp a simple but flavorful seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. This seasoning not only adds taste but also helps the shrimp develop a lovely, inviting color when cooked.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove them and set aside to keep the shrimp perfectly tender and juicy.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic. Cook for just 30 seconds until the garlic releases its aroma—you don’t want it to brown. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, gently bringing the mix to a simmer. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating that irresistible creamy texture that defines the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them thoroughly with the sauce. Then add the drained pasta, tossing it all together. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up just right. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is your go-to topping for a vibrant touch that cuts through the creaminess. For extra flair, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the flavors beautifully. Don’t hold back on garnishes—they turn a great dish into something unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread makes an ideal meal. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a lovely textural contrast and a healthy bite, rounding out the richness of the pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in individual bowls topped with microgreens or edible flowers. You could also present it in a large rustic bowl right at the table, inviting everyone to dig in family-style. Adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top offers a glossy finish that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover pasta and shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so it’s best to gently reheat with a splash of cream or broth to restore that creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing creamy shrimp pasta can be tricky because the cream sauce might separate. If you want to freeze leftovers, store the shrimp and pasta separately from the sauce and thaw them slowly before reheating and recombining.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring often. Add a bit of chicken broth, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and keep the shrimp tender. Avoid the microwave as it can toughen the shrimp and curdle the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp properly and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely and don’t release too much water, which could thin the sauce.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are all excellent choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, giving you a perfect bite every time.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and might not thicken quite as much. Adjust seasoning accordingly to keep flavor balanced.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions if you want to boost veggies. Add them when you cook the garlic to soften and develop flavor.

How spicy is the dish if I include red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick—not overpowering but enough to contrast nicely with the creamy sauce. You can always leave them out or adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels fancy without the fuss, making it a true go-to for many occasions. Its stunning balance of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds. I encourage you to give it a try—you may just find it becoming your new favorite weeknight dinner to impress or comfort you whenever you crave something special yet effortless.