Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

There’s nothing quite like the burst of bright citrus paired with rich, velvety cream and succulent shrimp to elevate a pasta dish to pure comfort food magic. This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is exactly that—a luscious, flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes and feels indulgent without being complicated. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it combines the zest of fresh lemon with the warmth of garlic and a hint of spice, all wrapped up in a silky sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a standout, what you’ll need, and how to make it your new go-to pasta craving.

Why This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Stands Out

This recipe balances bright, tangy lemon juice and zest with the richness of heavy cream to create a sauce that’s both refreshing and comforting. The shrimp add a tender, protein-packed bite, sautéed to perfection in fragrant garlic and olive oil. A pinch of red pepper flakes brings a subtle kick that wakes up the palate without overpowering the other flavors. Unlike heavier cream sauces, this one feels light and vibrant, making the perfect harmony with simple spaghetti. Whether you’re craving the Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne or want to explore variations like the Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo, this dish stands confidently on its own with balanced ingredients and straightforward technique.

What’s in the Bowl

• 8 oz spaghetti – the perfect pasta to soak up the luscious sauce
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – fresh or thawed, ready for quick sautéing
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for that golden sear and depth of flavor
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic backbone of the dish
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates that silky, dreamy sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – packs a punch of lemony brightness
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – for that fresh citrus tang
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – adds a gentle heat to elevate the flavors
• Salt and pepper, to taste – essential seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – adds color and freshness
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving – optional but highly recommended for umami richness

Gear Checklist

• Large pot for boiling pasta – to cook spaghetti al dente
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking shrimp and sauce
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Zester or microplane – to zest lemons
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring sauce and shrimp

Directions: Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine. Add the red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked spaghetti and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce seems too thick. This will help coat every strand of spaghetti perfectly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy the beautiful combination of creamy, tangy, and garlicky flavors!

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream blend for a lighter, dairy-free option.
• Use whole wheat or chickpea-based pasta to add fiber and protein.
• Reduce olive oil slightly to cut down on fat content without sacrificing flavor.
• Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Method to the Madness

This dish works because of a few key techniques:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and become tough if left too long. Sear them just until opaque.
• Reserve pasta water. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and helps it cling to the noodles perfectly.
• Simmer the sauce gently. Avoid boiling the cream; a gentle simmer thickens it without curdling.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest. These bring brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream.

Storage Pro Tips

Store leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Shrimp can become rubbery if reheated too long, so warm just until heated through. For best texture, consider cooking the shrimp fresh and tossing with leftover pasta sauce and noodles.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent a good sear.

What pasta works best with this creamy sauce?

Spaghetti is classic for this recipe because its long strands hold the sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with penne or linguine for a different texture. For a similar flavor profile, try the Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti for a delicious twist.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a gentle heat from the red pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead, but for the best texture, cook the shrimp fresh just before serving. Reheat the sauce and pasta gently, then toss with hot shrimp.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – A penne pasta variation bursting with lemony shrimp goodness.
• Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo – A vibrant and quick orzo dish perfect for busy weeknights.
• Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti – A fresh, herbaceous twist on a lemon garlic pasta with tender chicken.

Serve & Enjoy

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is best served hot, right off the stove, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge complements the dish beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers bright, creamy flavors and tender shrimp that make every bite a delight. Dive in and savor the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and citrusy goodness in every forkful!

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