Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Decadent pasta tossed with succulent shrimp in a rich garlic–Parmesan cream sauce. Restaurant-worthy comfort in minutes: tender noodles, juicy shrimp, and a silky, garlicky sauce that clings to every strand. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and weeknight-easy steps make it an instant favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• Optional: red pepper flakes or lemon zest/juice

Instructions

1. Cook pasta in well-salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant, not browned.
3. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add to skillet; cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
4. Pour in heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and Italian seasoning until melted and smooth (2–3 minutes).
5. Return shrimp (and juices) to the pan. Add pasta; toss to coat, loosening with splashes of reserved pasta water as needed.
6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Finish with parsley (and optional red pepper flakes or lemon). Serve immediately.

Variations

1. Lemon-Garlic: Add zest of 1 lemon and 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice with the cream for brightness.
2. Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato: Stir in 2 cups baby spinach and 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes until wilted and heated through.
3. Cajun Shrimp: Season shrimp with 1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning before searing for a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

1. Pat shrimp dry for better sear and flavor; overcrowding will steam them—cook in batches if needed.
2. Add cheese off a vigorous boil and stir steadily to prevent clumping.
3. If sauce thickens on standing, loosen with pasta water or a splash of cream.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread or focaccia.
2. Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or blistered tomatoes for color and contrast.
3. Finish at the table with extra Parmesan, parsley, and cracked black pepper.

Tips

• Taste and season in layers—pasta water, shrimp, then sauce—for best balance.
• Keep shrimp just-cooked; overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Warm bowls before serving to keep the sauce silky and hot longer.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per serving)

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Sodium: 780 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, but the sauce will be thinner—simmer gently and add a bit more Parmesan to thicken.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Absolutely—thaw completely, pat dry, and proceed as directed.
3. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Keep heat moderate, add cheese off a boil, and stir until melted and smooth.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
   Refrigerate up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen.

Conclusion

Silky, garlicky, and effortlessly elegant, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta delivers restaurant comfort in under 30 minutes. Al dente noodles, juicy shrimp, and a Parmesan-kissed cream sauce make every bite feel special. Keep it classic or add lemon, greens, or heat—and leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of cream.