Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta

Name: Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Plate Essentials

I absolutely love making Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta when I want a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. The richness of the creamy sauce combined with the sweetness of the shrimp creates an irresistible flavor that always impresses. Plus, it's a fantastic way to elevate a simple pasta dish and bring some restaurant-style dining to my table. Perfect for date nights or a cozy family dinner, this pasta never fails to satisfy my cravings for something comforting and delicious.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:49:37.817Z

When I first experimented with Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta, I wanted to create a dish that was both quick and flavorful. The key is to not overcook the shrimp; they need just a few minutes to turn from translucent to perfectly pink. I’ve found that a touch of lemon zest really brightens the cream sauce, adding that extra zing.

On a busy weeknight, I love how simple pantry staples—like garlic and black pepper—can transform this dish into something special. I also make sure to serve it with freshly grated Parmesan to enhance the creaminess and depth of flavor with every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich sauce that envelops each strand of pasta
Quick preparation time makes it a weeknight favorite
The burst of flavors from shrimp and lemon zest

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The key to a luscious cream sauce is the quality of the heavy cream. Choose a good-grade, full-fat cream, as it will create a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the pasta and shrimp. When adding the cream, ensure you're at a gentle simmer rather than a aggressive boil to prevent separation. Stirring frequently helps achieve a glossy finish, signaling that your sauce is ready for the shrimp.

Incorporating lemon zest is crucial for balancing the creaminess of the sauce. It brightens each bite and complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully. Be cautious not to overdo it; a teaspoon of freshly grated zest is sufficient to elevate the flavors without overpowering the dish. If you prefer a little more acidity, consider adding a splash of lemon juice at the end for a fresh twist.

Choosing and Cooking Shrimp

For this recipe, opt for large shrimp, as their size allows for even cooking and a satisfying bite. Make sure they are cooked just until pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes—depending on their size. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, losing their delicate texture. If you’re not certain, you can always cut one open; the flesh should be firm and white, with no gray or translucent areas.

If fresh shrimp seems overwhelming, frozen shrimp make an excellent alternative. They can be thawed quickly under cold running water or in the refrigerator overnight. Just ensure you remove any excess moisture before adding them to the pan, as water can dilute your cream sauce and affect its consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started.

Ingredients for Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.

Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Stir gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to combine everything. Cook for another minute to allow the pasta to absorb some sauce.

Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta!

Pro Tips

For a little extra kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. This will give your dish a delightful heat that complements the richness beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp cream sauce pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that pasta can sometimes absorb sauce during storage, so you may need to add a splash of cream or a little reserved pasta water when reheating for a creamy consistency. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to maintain that creamy texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp and sauce separately. Cream sauces can be tricky when frozen and might break upon thawing. If you do freeze it, consume it within 2-3 months for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add a touch more cream if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables, adding a refreshing element to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors well. For a satisfying dinner experience, serve with crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

To elevate your dish even further, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, or incorporating seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or spinach during the cooking process. Both options add texture and nutrition, enhancing both appearance and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of white wine added to the sauté before the cream can intensify the overall taste profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute fettuccine with linguine, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your heavy cream is free from gluten additives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

→ Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas would be delicious additions to this dish.