There is something irresistibly satisfying about a dish that balances bold flavors, velvety textures, and a touch of comfort, and this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe does exactly that. Imagine tender shrimp, perfectly seasoned and seared, swimming in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that clings to al dente pasta in the most delightful way. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weeknight or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become an instant favorite in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this dish. Each component, from the spices to the creamy sauce, works harmoniously to create that unforgettable bite after bite experience.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta or pasta of choice: Use your favorite pasta shape, but linguine’s flat shape helps hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, shrimp is the star protein here, offering a tender, briny pop with every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the seasonings cling to the shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Old Bay seasoning: Brings a smoky, spicy note that layers great depth into the dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlicky flavor without overpowering the fresh garlic in the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano): Introduces herbaceous hints that elevate the cream sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing natural sweetness in shrimp and dairy.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick that complements the savory ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used in two steps to enrich the pan sauce and help caramelize the garlic and shrimp.
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the heart of the sauce, infusing its signature boldness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky base that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that melts into the cream for that iconic pasta sauce flavor.
- Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup): The starchy water loosens the sauce while helping it cling wonderfully to the noodles.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your linguine and let it cook until perfectly al dente, about 10 minutes. Don’t forget to scoop out about ½ cup of that reserved pasta water before draining – it’s a little trick that will bring your sauce to a whole new level of silkiness.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss together the raw shrimp with olive oil and a flavorful blend of Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure every shrimp is evenly coated because this seasoning mix is what gives them that irresistible, slightly smoky punch.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook just about a minute on each side until they develop a light char and turn pink – this quick sear locks in their juices and enhances their natural sweetness. Once ready, set them aside to make room for your sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant – it’s that heady aroma that tells you the magic is happening. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, then sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly. Add the reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce, making it perfectly saucy without being runny. Taste and adjust salt as needed – this step is all about layering the flavors.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta to your creamy sauce, tossing it to coat each strand in garlic-infused goodness. Then gently fold the cooked shrimp back in, folding just enough to mix without breaking them apart. This is when you know your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is ready to steal the spotlight at your table.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top to add a burst of color and a mild herbaceous note. If you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes are a fantastic way to add dimension without overwhelming the sauce. Don’t forget an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese for that salty, melty finish.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or serve a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a well-rounded meal. A warm crusty bread or garlic bread is also perfect to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of fresh thyme or basil leaves. For a festive touch, drizzle a little truffle oil or lemon zest on top just before serving – it brightens the dish and makes it feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 2 days, making it an excellent option for a quick reheat and enjoy later meal. Keep in mind that shrimp is best when consumed promptly to maintain its tender texture.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze, store the pasta and sauce separately from the shrimp. Pasta can become mushy after thawing, so freezing is not highly recommended for this particular recipe. If you freeze, thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent the shrimp from overcooking and the sauce from separating. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce grainy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This ensures they sear nicely and don’t steam in the pan.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Linguine is a top choice because its flat ribbons hold the sauce beautifully. However, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne work well too, depending on your preference.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative and use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute instead of heavy cream and Parmesan. The flavor and texture will be a bit different but still delicious.
How can I add more veggies to the dish?
Add quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers either when making the sauce or as a side. Sauté them briefly to keep their color and crunch, adding a healthy twist to your creamy shrimp pasta.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness depends on the seasoning you choose. Using Cajun or Old Bay adds a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less seasoning or by including a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and indulgent about this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a beautiful marriage of flavors and textures, easy enough for any night yet special enough to impress. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become one of your go-to dishes whenever you crave that perfect creamy pasta with seafood flair.
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe combines succulent, seasoned shrimp with a rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked linguine pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious and impressive meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta or pasta of choice
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the shrimp: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 1 minute per side until charred and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and the reserved pasta water, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce loosens. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Toss and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat fully. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and help it adhere better to the pasta.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery quickly.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be adjusted to taste.
- Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for optimal melting and flavor.
- Optional garnishes like parsley or red pepper flakes add extra color and taste.
