Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of tender shrimp, rich creamy sauce, and flavorful garlic, all tossed with linguine for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. The dish is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something indulgent yet approachable. The creamy sauce is silky and smooth, enriched with parmesan cheese and just the right amount of seasoning, while the shrimp add a delightful bite and texture.

What makes this recipe truly special is how quickly it comes together without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels a little luxurious or a dish to impress guests with minimal fuss, this pasta fits the bill perfectly. The fresh parsley adds a bright finish that balances the richness of the sauce, making every bite deliciously well-rounded.

You’ll appreciate the ease and versatility of this recipe—feel free to customize the seasoning or pasta type to suit your preferences. It’s comfort food elevated, bringing a touch of elegance to your dinner table in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
2. Rich and Creamy – The luscious sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully.
3. Fresh and Flavorful – Garlic, parmesan, and herbs create a vibrant taste.
4. Protein-Packed – Shrimp add a healthy boost of lean protein.
5. Customizable Seasoning – Use Old Bay, smoked paprika, or Cajun for your preferred flavor profile.

Ingredients

• Linguine pasta
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Salt
• Ground black pepper
• Old Bay seasoning (optional) or smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream (double cream)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Variations

• Add Vegetables – Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or use Cajun seasoning for heat.
• Lighter Version – Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Different Pasta – Swap linguine for fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.
• Extra Cheese – Stir in some cream cheese or mozzarella for an even creamier texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the shrimp, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (or preferred spice). Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 6

Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 7

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.

Step 8

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, mixing thoroughly to combine everything evenly.

Step 9

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 10

Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides richer flavor than pre-grated.
• Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy garlic shrimp pasta as a satisfying main course with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or garlic roasted broccoli for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked pasta and shrimp separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

Yes, half-and-half or coconut milk can work, though the sauce will be less rich.

3. What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?

Smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, or a simple mix of paprika and garlic powder are great substitutes.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely, just use gluten-free pasta.

5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque—usually 2-3 minutes per side.

6. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can make the sauce ahead and gently reheat before adding shrimp and pasta.

7. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

It’s best fresh, but leftovers keep well for 1-2 days in the fridge.

8. Can I add other seafood instead of shrimp?

Yes, scallops or chunks of cooked fish work well too.

9. How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the cream a little longer before adding cheese to reduce it.

10. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sauté spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a wonderful dish that balances rich, comforting flavors with fresh ingredients and quick preparation. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. With its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and vibrant parsley, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion that you’ll want to make again and again.

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