Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta. It’s a perfect marriage of succulent shrimp, rich tomato sauce, and luscious cream, all tossed with tender linguine or spaghetti. This recipe effortlessly combines the bright acidity of tomatoes with the comforting creaminess you love, creating a dish that’s both elegant enough for dinner guests and simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re new to shrimp or a seasoned seafood lover, this pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta hits all the right notes:

• Balanced flavors: The tangy crushed tomatoes cut through the richness of the heavy cream, creating a perfectly harmonious sauce.
• Garlic punch: Garlic elevates every bite, infusing the shrimp and sauce with irresistible aroma and depth.
• Quick cooking: Shrimp cooks in minutes, making this a speedy recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh shrimp come together beautifully without complicated steps.
• Versatile pasta: Linguine or spaghetti both work wonderfully, adapting to your preference.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but feels like a comforting home-cooked meal. For those who love seafood pasta, you might also enjoy the Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti, which offers a fiery twist on shrimp and pasta.

Ingredient Checklist

• 8 oz pasta: Linguine or spaghetti, your choice for texture and bite.
• 1 lb shrimp: Peeled and deveined – medium or large size works best.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing shrimp and garlic.
• 4 cloves garlic: Minced fresh garlic is key for bold flavor.
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Use good quality for the richest taste.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds that silky, creamy consistency.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the tomato base.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other ingredients.
• Fresh basil: For garnish, adds freshness and color.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated, for serving – optional but highly recommended.

Cook’s Kit

• Large pot: For boiling pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking shrimp and sauce.
• Colander: To drain pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring sauce and pasta.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For prepping garlic and shrimp.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.

The Method for Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

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

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Slowly stir in the heavy cream, blending until the sauce turns a beautiful pinkish hue and becomes creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and mix everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a lighter lemony twist, try pairing this dish with the Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne. Or if you want a tomato-basil variation, check out the Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Shrimp: Substitute with scallops or chunks of firm white fish for a different seafood twist.
• Heavy cream: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative, though this will slightly alter the flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes blended or diced canned tomatoes can work but may change texture.
• Italian seasoning: Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary if you don’t have a blend on hand.

Flavor Logic

The magic behind this creamy tomato garlic shrimp pasta lies in the balance of acidity, creaminess, and aromatics:

• Tomatoes: Provide acidity and depth that refresh the palate and brighten the dish.
• Garlic: Adds a savory, aromatic base that complements both shrimp and tomato.
• Heavy cream: Smooths out the acidity, creating a luscious mouthfeel.
• Italian seasoning: Infuses herbal notes that tie the sauce together.
• Shrimp: Offers sweetness and a tender texture that contrasts the sauce beautifully.
• Fresh basil: Brings freshness and a subtle peppery finish right before serving.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat:

• Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
• A microwave works in a pinch; reheat in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.
• Avoid reheating shrimp for too long to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Linguine and spaghetti are both excellent choices because they hold the creamy sauce well. You can also experiment with fettuccine or penne for a different texture.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce fat content, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more bulk and nutrients.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients in advance, such as mincing garlic and peeling shrimp, but it’s best to cook the pasta and shrimp fresh to maintain texture and flavor. The sauce can be made a day ahead and gently reheated.

Keep Cooking

• Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti – A spicy alternative to your shrimp pasta nights.
• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – Bright and creamy with a citrusy kick.
• Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine – A fragrant and flavorful tomato basil pasta.

Let’s Eat

There’s something truly special about a Creamy Tomato Garlic Shrimp Pasta that satisfies both the soul and the taste buds. The tender shrimp paired with a velvety tomato cream sauce delivers a rich, comforting experience in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends, this dish promises to delight. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan, grab a fork, and dig in—your new favorite pasta is ready!

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