Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or fettuccine; 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic flavor, and a luscious creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta makes my heart sing. This dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, which is perfect for a weeknight meal or when entertaining guests. It's not just delicious; the vibrant colors and fragrant aroma will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:34:08.189Z

When we first tried making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, it was pure experimentation. I played around with the garlic-to-cream ratio until I found that perfect balance; too much garlic can overpower the delicate shrimp. I also learned the importance of adding a splash of pasta water to the sauce to help it cling beautifully to the noodles.

One tip that transformed my dish was letting the shrimp sit with some seasoning before cooking. This enhances their flavor significantly, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with richness and depth. Every time I serve it, the compliments never stop!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, garlicky sauce that clings to each pasta strand
Succulent shrimp that are perfectly cooked every time
Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes

      

The Importance of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish, lending its vibrant flavor to the creamy sauce. When sautéing the garlic, be cautious not to let it brown; this can impart a bitter taste. I recommend using fresh garlic over pre-minced versions, as it provides a stronger, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall dish. Sauté until the garlic is just fragrant, about 1 minute, to achieve that perfect balance of flavor without any bitterness.

Additionally, if you want to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will introduce a subtle heat that beautifully complements the richness of the cream and cheese. Just a small amount can transform the dish into something truly spectacular, so keep that in mind if you enjoy a bit of spice!

Perfectly Cooked Pasta and Shrimp

Achieving perfect pasta is crucial for this creamy shrimp pasta. Cook the linguine or fettuccine until it's al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes depending on the brand. Al dente pasta will hold its shape while also absorbing some of the tasty sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Don't forget to reserve that 1/2 cup of pasta water! It’s a great tool for adjusting sauce thickness later on.

When cooking the shrimp, it’s essential to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery in texture. Look for shrimp that turn pink and curl into a 'C' shape after about 2-3 minutes on medium heat. If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer; shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 120°F. Once cooked, remove them from the pan promptly to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic shrimp pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce during storage, so when reheating, add a splash of additional chicken or vegetable broth to loosen the mixture before warming it gently in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld back together.

For serving, consider garnishing with lemon wedges alongside the fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright, zesty contrast to the creamy sauce. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal and impress your guests with a delightful culinary presentation.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Shrimp

12 oz linguine or fettuccine
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped and measured for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

Combine Together

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Enjoy your creamy, garlicky dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp. This will give your dish a delightful heat that's absolutely perfect with the creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. This will result in a slightly thinner sauce but still retains a creamy texture. Additionally, consider using shrimp alternatives like cooked chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Both yield delicious results and can easily accommodate dietary restrictions.

For cheese lovers, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pecorino Romano offers a sharper flavor than Parmesan, enhancing the overall complexity of the sauce. If you have a lactose intolerance, a blend of nutritional yeast and cashew cream can mimic a cheesy taste without the dairy.

Variations to Try

For a burst of color and flavor, add in seasonal vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. These additions not only enhance the dish’s nutritional value but also contribute a fresh and vibrant touch that complements the creaminess beautifully. You could also sauté a mix of bell peppers and zucchini for a Mediterranean twist.

If you enjoy a seafood medley, consider tossing in scallops or mussels with the shrimp. Just be mindful of their cooking times; scallops should be sautéed for about 2 minutes per side, while mussels need to steam until they open, adding a delightful brininess to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or steamed vegetables.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine before serving.