Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta on cozy evenings when I crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic cream sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta. The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Each bite is a delightful burst of flavor, and it's a sure way to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:46:23.955Z

When I first tried creating this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, I was determined to get the sauce just right. After experimenting with various ingredients, I found that adding a splash of lemon juice not only balanced the creaminess but also added a refreshing zing that highlights the flavor of the shrimp. The first time I served this dish at a dinner party, everyone was raving about it, and it quickly became a go-to recipe.

I also learned that using high-quality shrimp makes a significant difference in taste. Sourcing fresh shrimp from a local market allows for a much sweeter and more tender result. I like to sauté the garlic just until fragrant before adding the cream; this technique really helps to infuse the sauce with that irresistible garlic flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy garlic sauce that envelops every strand of pasta
Quick preparation for a perfect weeknight dinner
Juicy shrimp that adds protein and flavor balance

      

Understanding the Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce in this dish is what makes it so indulgent. When you incorporate the heavy cream, it’s important to bring it to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil to prevent curdling. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce, giving it that rich, velvety texture. If it becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add small amounts of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

The balance of flavors is crucial. Lemon juice not only brightens the sauce but also cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a well-rounded dish. I highly recommend tasting the sauce just before combining it with the pasta to ensure the seasoning is on point. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your palate.

Perfecting the Shrimp

Cooking the shrimp correctly is essential for a delightful texture. Start by making sure that your skillet is hot enough; you’re looking for a sizzle when the shrimp makes contact with the pan. Overcrowding the shrimp can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, so cook them in batches if necessary. They should be opaque and curled slightly when fully cooked, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes on medium heat.

For a flavor boost, consider marinating the shrimp for 15-30 minutes before cooking. A simple blend of olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the overall taste profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, adjust the amount of garlic or add crushed red pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, I recommend using a shallow bowl to showcase the creamy sauce draping over the shrimp and pasta. Garnishing with freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh herbaceous note that complements the dish beautifully. Consider pairing this pasta with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating can be tricky, as the cream sauce might separate. To revive it, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce come back together. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to uneven temperatures and a rubbery texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your creamy garlic shrimp pasta:

Ingredients

12 oz linguine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat, and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce evenly. Cook together for another minute to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your succulent creamy garlic shrimp pasta!

Now sit back and enjoy this delicious dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing. This will give your pasta a lovely, spicy notes that complement the richness of the cream.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe calls for linguine pasta, feel free to swap it out for fettuccine or even spaghetti. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce well. Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can be good alternative choices for a healthier option, although they may require slightly different cooking times, so always check the package instructions.

For the shrimp, consider using chicken or even tofu as a protein source. If choosing chicken, cook it thoroughly in the same manner as the shrimp, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For a vegetarian version, mushrooms can add a meaty texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Make-Ahead Strategy

If you're short on time during the week, you can prep some elements ahead of time. The garlic can be minced, and the shrimp can be cleaned and stored in the fridge a day in advance. You might also cook the pasta and toss it lightly in oil to prevent sticking. However, I suggest making the creamy sauce fresh to ensure the best texture and flavor, as it can become clumpy if prepared too far in advance.

Additionally, this dish is perfect for scaling up for parties. Just increase your ingredient quantities proportionally. If you are making a larger batch, consider using multiple pans to ensure even cooking and to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can affect the shrimp’s texture and prevent them from browning nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thoroughly thaw and drain them before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

You can incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before mixing it with the pasta.