Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Pasta night just got a decadent upgrade with this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta—a weeknight-friendly meal that’s silky, garlicky, and piled high with juicy shrimp! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a splurge, yet comes together in about 20 minutes (seriously!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is carefully chosen for both ease and maximum flavor. This short grocery list transforms into restaurant-worthy results, and everything truly matters for that dreamy, clingy sauce!

• Linguine pasta: The flat shape holds creamy sauces best, but you can swap for spaghetti or fettuccine.
• Olive oil: Adds depth and fragrance to the base of your sauce.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps brown the shrimp for unbeatable flavor.
• Raw shrimp: Buy peeled and deveined for convenience—fresh or frozen both work perfectly.
• Salt & black pepper: Simple classics that wake up every ingredient.
• Old Bay seasoning (or smoked paprika/Cajun): Offers a pop of spice or smoky warmth (totally optional, but delightful).
• Garlic: The heart and soul of the dish, freshly minced is a must here!
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky smooth—don’t substitute with half-and-half if you want that luscious finish.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting into that creamy, savory sauce.
• Fresh parsley: For a final fresh, herbal burst and a pop of color.

Variations

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is endlessly adaptable—once you master the basics, it’s easy to tweak for every table or craving. Don’t be afraid to give it your personal touch!

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir them in at the end for a gentle kick.
• Bulk it up with veggies: Toss in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sliced zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Lighter option: Swap half of the heavy cream for whole milk (the sauce will be slightly less thick but still delicious).
• Change the protein: Try this base sauce with scallops or even diced chicken for a tasty twist!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil and cook your linguine according to package directions until just al dente. Before draining, carefully scoop out about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water—you’ll want this liquid gold for adjusting your sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season well with salt, pepper, and Old Bay (or your alternate seasoning). Cook just until they curl and turn pink—this only takes a couple minutes, so don’t walk away! Then, transfer the shrimp to a plate.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same pan, melt the remaining butter and toss in the minced garlic. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, use your spatula to scrape up any flavors stuck to the bottom, and let it warm through.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Emulsify

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt completely, stirring to combine. Gradually add splashes of the reserved pasta water until you reach that perfect creamy, glossy consistency—usually just a few tablespoons does the trick.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Return the drained linguine to the pan and toss well to coat every strand with sauce. Gently fold the shrimp back in and let them warm for a minute. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed, then finish with plenty of fresh parsley on top. Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is ready to wow!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley is a must for color and freshness, and a little extra grated Parmesan never hurts. If you’re feeling fancy, a tiny swirl of good olive oil or a dusting of black pepper takes Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta over the top.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich, so pair it with something crisp! A simple lemony green salad or a handful of steamed asparagus is perfect. Of course, don’t forget a side of warm, crusty bread for swooping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Swirl the pasta high with tongs in the center of each plate, then nestle the shrimp artfully on top. For a dinner party, serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta in mini bowls or as individual nests on appetizer spoons for a fun, elegant starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta into a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavor deepens as it sits, though the sauce may thicken a little in the fridge.

Freezing

Because of the cream-based sauce, this pasta doesn’t freeze well—the texture can get grainy on thawing and reheating. If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the cooked shrimp separately and make the sauce fresh for best results.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too; just heat in short bursts and stir in between so it stays creamy, not clumpy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something creamy, bold, and totally satisfying, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the way to go. It’s the sort of meal that turns any night into a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it—let this dreamy pasta become your new weeknight wonder!

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