There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy garlic shrimp pasta. The combination of tender shrimp, rich and velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish an instant favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Garlic and cream are a match made in heaven, especially when paired with succulent shrimp. This dish has an indulgent quality, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create bold, delicious flavors. The garlic-infused cream sauce coats each strand of pasta beautifully, and the shrimp add a satisfying bite. It’s a dish that feels fancy but requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Restaurant-Quality – Creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor, just like something you’d order at a high-end Italian restaurant.
• Customizable – Swap out the pasta type, adjust the seasoning, or add veggies for a personal touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as this can help adjust the sauce consistency later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the creamy sauce. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic shrimp pasta with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor. Avoid using garlic powder for this recipe.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them juicy.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce gets too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
• Choose the Right Pasta – Long pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti works best to hold the creamy sauce.
• Make It Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cornstarch for a lighter version.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Pescatarian

Notes

• Pasta Water is Key – Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce consistency and allows it to cling to the pasta better.
• Use Fresh Shrimp if Possible – Fresh shrimp have a better texture and flavor, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – When cooking shrimp, give them space in the pan to ensure they sear properly rather than steaming.
• Balance the Flavors – The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy sauce. Don’t skip it—it helps cut through the richness!
• Make it Your Own – Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, using a different pasta shape, or adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
• For an Extra Flavor Boost – Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a little extra garlic for a deeper, more aromatic taste.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
• Freezing – This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water from thinning the sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. However, this may slightly change the taste and texture.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus would make great additions. Simply sauté them along with the shrimp or mix them into the sauce.

What type of pasta works best?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are great options since they hold the creamy sauce well. However, penne or rigatoni can also work if you prefer shorter pasta.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick.

Related Recipes

If you loved this creamy garlic shrimp pasta, you might also enjoy:

• Creamy Tomato Pasta
• Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad
• Lobster Ravioli Sauce – A Creamy, Luxurious Addition

Conclusion

Creamy garlic shrimp pasta is the perfect dish when you want something indulgent yet easy to make. With its velvety sauce, tender shrimp, and garlicky goodness, this meal is bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your kitchen.

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