Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s both rich and comforting, yet surprisingly quick to whip up, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Picture perfectly cooked shrimp tossed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, all wrapped around tender fettuccine noodles. It’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a cozy night in. With just a handful of ingredients, many of which you probably already have on hand, this recipe will elevate your pasta game without any fuss.

Why Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is Worth Your Time

This dish hits all the right notes: succulent shrimp, a velvety garlic cream sauce, and al dente pasta that soaks up all those flavors. It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Unlike heavy, complicated meals, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, the garlic and parmesan combination is a classic that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta will impress every time.

Ingredient Rundown

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta – The wide, flat noodles hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or frozen works here; just make sure they are properly thawed if frozen. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a lovely texture and protein punch.
• 3 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and garlic, bringing out those robust flavors.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is the star of this dish, infusing the sauce with its signature aroma and taste.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the rich, smooth base for the sauce that clings to the pasta and shrimp.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors and seasons the dish perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a gentle kick and depth to the sauce.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who like a touch of heat in their pasta.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Brightens the dish with a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot – For boiling the fettuccine pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the shrimp and prepare the creamy garlic sauce.
• Colander – For draining the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Grater – To freshly grate the parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping garlic and parsley.

Method: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the cream warm through, then gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with the remaining salt, black pepper, and add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting, flavorful goodness.

Swap Guide

• Pasta: Use linguine or spaghetti if you don’t have fettuccine on hand.
• Shrimp: Scallops or chicken breast cubes make great alternatives if you prefer.
• Heavy Cream: Substitute with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast can be used for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Olive Oil: Butter or avocado oil can also be used for cooking.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp turns rubbery quickly, so watch cook times closely.
• Burning the garlic – Garlic should be softened until fragrant, not browned to avoid bitterness.
• Not reserving pasta water – This starchy water helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
• Adding cheese too quickly – Incorporate parmesan gradually to prevent clumping in the sauce.
• Under-seasoning – Salt is essential to bring out full flavors, especially in creamy sauces.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the shrimp and sauce components ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta is best cooked fresh, but if you need to store it, toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and keep it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet, add the pasta, and toss together with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan, which can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear.

What can I add to make this dish more flavorful?

Try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream for a subtle depth. Fresh lemon juice or zest also brightens the flavors beautifully. For an extra layer, sauté some mushrooms or spinach along with the garlic.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time and assemble when ready to eat. Store shrimp and sauce separately from pasta to avoid sogginess. This keeps the texture and flavor fresh when reheated.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. To thin it out, add reserved pasta water or a bit more cream until you reach your preferred consistency.

Explore More

• Try the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Pasta for a slightly different take on creamy seafood pasta.
• For a citrus twist, check out this refreshing Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a true winner for anyone who loves quick, satisfying meals that don’t compromise on flavor. The balance of rich cream, sharp parmesan, and tender shrimp makes it a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking a romantic dinner or a simple family meal, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins or swaps to make it your own. Once you try this, it will likely become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Enjoy every creamy, garlicky forkful!

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