Print

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 7 reviews

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a luscious and satisfying dish featuring perfectly cooked shrimp tossed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce and served over tender pasta. This flavorful recipe combines smoky spices with the brightness of lemon and the sharpness of Parmesan for a delightful meal that’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant for guests.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine pasta
  • 1/2 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a bowl, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using, then let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss all ingredients together until well combined and heated through.
  5. Serve: Divide the creamy garlic shrimp pasta evenly among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • For best results, use large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for easy cooking and eating.
  • Fresh garlic is preferred to maximize flavor in the sauce, but garlic powder can supplement if needed.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional for a slight kick—omit for a milder dish.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, not pre-grated, for a creamier sauce texture.
  • Serve immediately as the sauce thickens upon standing.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic shrimp pasta, garlic cream sauce, shrimp pasta recipe, easy shrimp dinner, Italian pasta with shrimp

Find it online: https://islawhite.com/creamy-garlic-shrimp-pasta-recipe/