Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that brings together the indulgence of a rich, velvety sauce with the fresh, briny sweetness of perfectly cooked shrimp, you’re in for a treat. This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients combined to create a luscious meal that feels elegant but comes together with ease. Each bite offers a delightful harmony of garlicky warmth, tender shrimp, and al dente pasta swimming in a homemade Parmesan cream sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and essential to creating the perfect flavor and texture balance in the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe. Each item plays its part, from the aromatic garlic to the creamy Parmesan and the bright bite of seasoned shrimp.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta or pasta of choice: Linguine is ideal for holding the sauce, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, these bring that lovely seafood essence that pairs perfectly with cream.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps coat the shrimp evenly and adds a mild fruity flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Old Bay seasoning: Adds a subtle kick and complex spice notes for warmth.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor beyond the fresh cloves.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano): Brings earthiness and herbaceous flair to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential to seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy sauce.
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the heart of this dish’s signature flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the dreamy, luscious base of the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce its umami boost and smooth texture.
- Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup): Key to thinning the sauce to just the right consistency while keeping it silky.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the linguine. Cooking the pasta until just al dente, usually about 10 minutes, ensures it still has a slight bite, perfect for holding onto the sauce without becoming mushy. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will work wonders when adjusting your sauce’s texture later.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While your pasta cooks, toss the shrimp in a bowl with olive oil and a blend of Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture creates a flavorful coating that will give the shrimp a beautiful crust and a seasoning punch when cooked, making sure every bite bursts with taste.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and let them sear for about one minute on each side. Cooking shrimp quickly like this keeps them juicy and tender with a slightly charred edge for texture. Once done, take them out and set them aside—don’t worry, they’ll join the party again soon.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture just to a gentle simmer. Next, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and the reserved pasta water. This step is magical: the cheese melts into the cream, thickening the sauce, while the pasta water loosens it to the perfect consistency. Taste and adjust the salt if you need a little extra seasoning boost.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Finally, add your cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing it gently until every strand is luxuriously coated. Fold in the cooked shrimp with care so they don’t break apart. For an elegant finish, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. Serve it hot and watch your guests delight in every creamy, garlicky bite.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes such as chopped fresh parsley or basil add a pop of vibrant green color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can add a sharp, nutty touch, while a few red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A light mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette cuts through the richness, and crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, add a great textural element and earthy flavor balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor, pile the pasta into individual shallow bowls and drizzle the sauce over in a swirled pattern. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a delicate touch. Serving the shrimp on top in a circular pattern makes the dish look as delicious as it tastes, perfect for a dinner party or cozy date night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy garlic shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that seafood and cream sauces are best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume leftovers promptly for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not ideal because the cream sauce can separate and shrimp may become rubbery. If you need to freeze, store the cooked pasta and shrimp separately from the sauce, and thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, use a gentle touch: warm the pasta and shrimp slowly over low heat on the stove with a splash of milk or stock to revive the cream sauce’s texture. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce from breaking or the shrimp from overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine is traditional here because it holds the sauce beautifully, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will work wonderfully in the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe. Choose your favorite shape to make it your own.
How do I know when shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Shrimp cook very quickly—about one minute per side on medium-high heat. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque with firm texture. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and thick. Adding a touch of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if needed.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the sauce ahead and reheat gently before adding the pasta and shrimp. Just be sure to stir frequently to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency and add reserved pasta water if it gets too thick.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese work as excellent substitutes, each bringing their own sharp, salty flavor that complements the creamy sauce and shrimp beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a heartfelt pleasure to make and even more joyful to eat. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table with its perfect balance of creamy, garlicky goodness and tender shrimp. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your kitchen too!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce tossed with linguine pasta. With a perfect blend of Cajun seasoning and Parmesan cheese, it offers a savory and indulgent meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta or pasta of choice
Shrimp
- 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
- About ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside.
- Prepare 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 well to coat each shrimp evenly with the seasoning blend.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 1 minute on each side until they are charred on the edges and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water, mixing until the cheese has melted and the sauce has loosened. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss until fully coated. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity to your preferred spice level.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best texture.
- Can substitute linguine with fettuccine, spaghetti, or your preferred pasta shape.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
