If you are craving a dish that feels both comforting and a little fancy all at once, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It’s a delightful dance of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked linguine, and a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce that wraps everything in rich, irresistible flavor. Each bite bursts with a balance of spices and the sharp, savory tang of Parmesan, making it a truly satisfying meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend dinner, this recipe brings a touch of elegance without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how beautifully they come together to create such a rich and flavorful dish. Every component plays a role, from the spices seasoning the shrimp to the Parmesan melting into the creamy sauce.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta or pasta of choice: Choose linguine for a classic feel, but fettuccine or spaghetti work wonderfully too.
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp bring a sweet, delicate seafood flavor that’s key to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a smooth base to infuse the shrimp with spices evenly.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Old Bay seasoning: Adds a subtle kick and depth, giving the shrimp a lovely savory edge.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor beyond just fresh garlic for layered taste.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano): A herbaceous touch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Brings out all the natural flavors in the dish without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat to balance the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The foundation for sautéing and building flavor in both shrimp and sauce.
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the star here, infusing the sauce with aromatic warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the cream to enrich it with a nutty, savory profile.
- Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup): The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key because it seasons the pasta from within. Add the linguine and cook until it’s al dente, which means tender yet still with a little bite left. This texture will hold up beautifully to the creamy sauce. Remember to save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining, as it will be your secret to a silky sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, toss your shrimp in a bowl with olive oil and a blend of Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Every shrimp gets an even coat of this flavorful rub, which will make each bite wonderfully seasoned. This simple marinade will infuse the shrimp with a tasty, slightly spiced edge without overpowering the creaminess to come.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp, cooking each side for about a minute until they turn pink and get a nice char. This quick cooking locks in the shrimp’s natural sweetness while adding a satisfying texture. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Now add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. To loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta, slowly stir in the reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust salt as needed, ensuring the seasoning is just right to complement the shrimp and pasta.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, making sure every strand is coated in that rich, garlicky cream. Gently fold the shrimp back into the skillet, allowing the flavors to mingle just before serving. This step seals in the magic of the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe, making every forkful a heavenly mix of tender pasta and succulent shrimp in a decadent sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness in the best way imaginable. You might also like to top your pasta with extra Parmesan for an additional cheesy touch or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat to contrast the creamy sauce. These simple garnishes can elevate the dish’s appearance and add layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
Because this pasta is so rich and satisfying, pairing it with light, crisp sides works wonders. A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette is a classic choice that refreshes your palate. Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies, like asparagus or broccoli, can add texture and color to your plate. Garlic bread also makes a perfect companion if you want to keep the flavors indulgent and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of fun, serve the creamy garlic shrimp pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with a lemon wedge for a pop of acidity your guests can squeeze over their dish. You could also plate it family-style with the shrimp arranged on top in a pretty pattern to impress everyone at the table. Adding some edible flowers or microgreens on top makes for a lovely, gourmet touch if you’re going all out.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe tastes amazing even the next day. Store the pasta and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the sauce is rich, it holds up well without drying out, so reheating will bring it back to life nicely.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t ideal because the cream sauce can separate and change texture when thawed. However, if you need to freeze it, store the cooked pasta and shrimp separately from the sauce to maintain the best quality. Thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat while stirring to recombine the sauce.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. This method helps restore the creamy consistency without curdling. Microwaving works in a pinch—just heat in short bursts, stirring frequently.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture, which could make the sauce watery.
What’s the best pasta to use with this recipe?
Linguine is traditional and works beautifully, but you can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne depending on your preference. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt, though this will change the texture slightly. Using less butter and reducing cheese can also lighten the dish without losing flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas are wonderful additions that can be stirred in just before serving, giving the dish more color and nutrition.
How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly. Keep a close eye and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture. Cooking them about 1 minute on each side is usually perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves the harmony of seafood and rich, garlicky sauces. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a quick weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner with friends. The simple ingredients come together in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable, promising a satisfying and delicious experience every time. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will hold a special place in your recipe collection.
Print
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic-infused cream sauce, tossed with linguine pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta or pasta of choice
Shrimp
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 1 minute per side until charred and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and the reserved pasta water, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce loosens. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat fully. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce without thinning it too much.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or as a garnish.
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best flavor.
- Feel free to substitute linguine with fettuccine or spaghetti.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially the salt and Cajun seasoning.
