Creamy Shrimp and Pasta Recipe: A Restaurant-Quality Dish Made at Home

Looking for an easy yet impressive pasta dish? This creamy shrimp and pasta recipe combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic, and a luscious, creamy sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s a quick recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes, yet it feels like something you’d order at your favorite Italian restaurant. Follow these simple steps to create a creamy shrimp pasta that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Shrimp and Pasta

• Fettuccine or linguine pasta – 8 oz (about half a box)
• Shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Chicken or vegetable broth – ¼ cup (for a lighter sauce)
• Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Red pepper flakes – ½ tsp (optional, for a hint of spice)
• Lemon zest – 1 tsp (optional, for brightness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness with a splash of pasta water if needed.
4. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest (if desired) for added flavor.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles in the sauce.
2. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Let everything heat through for 1-2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the creamy shrimp pasta to serving plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, parsley, or red pepper flakes for added spice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp and Pasta

What’s the Best Type of Shrimp to Use?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best for pasta dishes because they’re easy to eat and cook quickly. Look for peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience, or peel and devein yourself for maximum freshness.

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, and spaghetti all pair beautifully with creamy sauces, but you can also try penne or rigatoni for a twist.

How Do I Thicken the Sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer, or add more Parmesan cheese. Adding pasta water can also help, as the starch in the water thickens the sauce while making it stick to the pasta.

Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. To make a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the texture.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions to this dish, adding both flavor and nutrients.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Shrimp and Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and lemon zest bring out the best flavors in this simple dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking will make it tough. Keep a close eye on it, as it only needs 2-3 minutes per side.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water to the sauce gives it a silky texture and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Conclusion

This creamy shrimp and pasta recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Perfectly cooked shrimp, a rich garlic-infused sauce, and a touch of Parmesan make this dish comforting yet elegant. Whether it’s a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. Give it a try and savor every bite of this delightful pasta dish!