Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti is bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes! Succulent shrimp meets a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce that’s irresistible.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Large Pot
Large skillet or sauté pan
Colander
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and half the garlic powder. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the remaining garlic powder and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your preferred consistency.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Add the drained spaghetti and gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Plate up this divine Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti immediately while warm and creamy.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Reserve pasta water before draining; it helps adjust sauce consistency.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth sauce.
- Sauté garlic gently to prevent bitterness from burning.
- Season gradually, as Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.
Keyword Creamy, Easy, Garlic, Parmesan, Quick, Shrimp