Ah, creamy garlic shrimp pasta. Just saying it gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling inside. If you’re anything like me, a plate of this dish feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. When I’m planning dinner, this dish always comes to mind, particularly because it plays so well with a crisp garden salad or some roasted asparagus on the side.
The crunch of fresh veggies contrasts beautifully with the silky pasta, making for a perfectly balanced meal. Plus, who can resist the charm of garlic and shrimp mingling in a creamy sauce?
What is Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Creamy garlic shrimp pasta is simply a sumptuous dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with succulent shrimp in a velvety garlic cream sauce. It’s an indulgent meal that elevates any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
This recipe hints of Italian flair, yet it has a personality all its own. It’s like a culinary conversation starter that has a little story in every bite. With a fantastic blend of flavors—from rich cream to zesty lemon—you’ll find yourself creating memories each time you dish it up.
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The Ingredients
Here’s your shopping list for this heavenly pasta creation:
- 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine noodles: Linguine is perfect for catching all the creamy goodness.
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- ½ cup (40 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is key—no one wants a gritty sauce!
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter: To sauté the shrimp to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds depth and flavor to the cooking process.
- 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined, of course; the stars of the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced: The aromatics that bring everything together.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Just enough to enhance all these fabulous flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A little kick of spice.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or Cajun seasoning; optional): Adds a hint of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon white wine or chicken broth: A splash brings everything together.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: For garnish and a touch of freshness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
At this point, your kitchen should be buzzing with excitement. Next up is the process. Following these steps will take you from stocking your pantry to enjoying a plate of creamy goodness.
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Believe me, there’s nothing worse than mushy pasta. Drain and reserve a cup of the pasta water in case you need to adjust your sauce later. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. When hot, toss in the pound of shrimp, keeping the heat consistent.
\Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. They’ll curl up a bit, and that’s how you know they’re ready. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside, taking care to leave any juices behind.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, you’ll want to add another half tablespoon of butter. Once melted, throw in the finely minced garlic. Sauté for just about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!). Pour in your splash of white wine or chicken broth now.
Scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Add in the heavy cream, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Stir to combine everything well.
Step 4: Add Parmesan
Now is the time to sprinkle in half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously for about a minute, allowing the cheese to melt fully, creating a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
This is it—the moment you’ve been working towards! Toss the cooked linguine in with the creamy sauce, ensuring the noodles are generously coated. If you feel your sauce is too thick, gradually add in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Finally, fold in the sautéed shrimp. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley for a pop of color.
Notes: Tips for Success
- Pasta Timing: Cook your pasta al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Shrimp Sizing: Use large shrimp for a meatier bite that stands up to the pasta.
- Cheese Choice: Go for fresh Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese can be dry and lack the same richness.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you want a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Garlic Flavor: Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s what makes this dish sing!
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store creamy garlic shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Be aware that the pasta will soak up the sauce, so you may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to revive its creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a rough breakdown of nutritional information per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Serving Suggestions
Here are some standout ways to elevate your experience with this dish:
- With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra dose of indulgence. Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce!
- Crisp Side Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness. Try adding arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a well-rounded bite.
- Roasted Asparagus: Pair with lightly roasted asparagus. The crispiness of roasted veggies complements the pasta’s creaminess beautifully.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze fresh juice over the dish. This brings a zesty brightness that balances the flavors.
- Wine: Enjoy with a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It’ll enhance every bite!
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Have a craving but missing an ingredient? Don’t fret! Here are some substitutes that can save the day:
- Pasta Types: Fettuccine or penne noodles can easily replace linguine. Both hold the sauce well and offer a different texture.
- Shrimp Alternatives: Scallops or chicken can stand in for shrimp. They offer a different flavor but still deliver protein.
- Cream Options: Greek yogurt or sour cream can lighten the sauce while still maintaining creaminess. Just mix in at the end to avoid curdling.
- Herbs: Basil and chives can replace parsley for a fresh herb twist. They offer unique flavors that can change the whole dish’s vibe.
- Add Ins: Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can amp up the nutrition and flavor profile. Toss them in just before serving.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Equipment
- Skillet
- pot
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 225 grams linguine noodles: Linguine is perfect for catching all the creamy goodness.
- ½ cup 120 ml heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- ½ cup 40 grams freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is key—no one wants a gritty sauce!
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter: To sauté the shrimp to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds depth and flavor to the cooking process.
- 1 pound 450 grams raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined, of course; the stars of the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced: The aromatics that bring everything together.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Just enough to enhance all these fabulous flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A little kick of spice.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning; optional: Adds a hint of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon white wine or chicken broth: A splash brings everything together.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: For garnish and a touch of freshness.
- 8 ounces 225 grams linguine noodles: Linguine is perfect for catching all the creamy goodness.
- ½ cup 120 ml heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- ½ cup 40 grams freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is key—no one wants a gritty sauce!
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter: To sauté the shrimp to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds depth and flavor to the cooking process.
- 1 pound 450 grams raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined, of course; the stars of the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced: The aromatics that bring everything together.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Just enough to enhance all these fabulous flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A little kick of spice.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning; optional: Adds a hint of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon white wine or chicken broth: A splash brings everything together.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: For garnish and a touch of freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Believe me, there’s nothing worse than mushy pasta. Drain and reserve a cup of the pasta water in case you need to adjust your sauce later. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. When hot, toss in the pound of shrimp, keeping the heat consistent.
- Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. They’ll curl up a bit, and that’s how you know they’re ready. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside, taking care to leave any juices behind.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, you’ll want to add another half tablespoon of butter. Once melted, throw in the finely minced garlic. Sauté for just about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!). Pour in your splash of white wine or chicken broth now.
- Scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Add in the heavy cream, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Stir to combine everything well.
Step 4: Add Parmesan
- Now is the time to sprinkle in half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously for about a minute, allowing the cheese to melt fully, creating a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
- This is it—the moment you’ve been working towards! Toss the cooked linguine in with the creamy sauce, ensuring the noodles are generously coated. If you feel your sauce is too thick, gradually add in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Finally, fold in the sautéed shrimp. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley for a pop of color.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are thawed and patted dry. Frozen shrimp can be just as flavorful; it just requires a bit more time.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great options available that work wonderfully.
How can I make this dish spicy?
If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. Alternatively, use Cajun seasoning instead of smoked paprika for added heat.
Can I prepare this pasta in advance?
You can pre-cook the shrimp and store it in the fridge, but it’s best to make the sauce and pasta fresh to maintain the creaminess.
What can I serve this with for a full meal?
This pasta pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or even some grilled veggies for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a dish that never gets old. It’s a fantastic way to indulge without spending all day in the kitchen. The blend of flavors and textures makes every forkful delightful. Plus, with the right adjustments, it can fit into a variety of diets and preferences. So, whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe will not disappoint.
Now it’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into making this dish that embodies love and comfort. Bon appétit!
