If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together succulent shrimp, tender linguine, and a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce that’s both comforting and impressively elegant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe balances simple ingredients with bold flavors, creating a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Let’s dive into the delicious world of creamy, garlicky goodness that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to crafting the perfect texture and flavor profile in this dish. Each element plays a vital role, whether it’s the shrimp providing protein and a sweet briny taste, or the seasonings enhancing the creamy garlic sauce’s depth.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: The ideal pasta to hold onto the creamy sauce while offering a delightful bite.
- 1 pound large raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined for ease, these are the star protein that cooks quickly and adds a touch of luxury.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to coat the shrimp for even seasoning and a little extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Old Bay seasoning: Brings a subtle heat and complexity that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic notes throughout the dish.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano): Adds an herby undertone for rounded flavor depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for proper seasoning and balancing tastes.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Delivers a mild kick and heightens overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used in two stages; it enriches the sauce and provides a silky mouthfeel.
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor in this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe, giving that irresistible aroma and taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety base of the sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that brings everything together.
- Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup): Helps loosen the sauce and maintain perfect consistency.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook it until al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes depending on the package instructions. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s a secret ingredient that will adjust the sauce’s consistency perfectly.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, Cajun or Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix will give your shrimp a beautifully bold flavor that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Melt one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet set to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for about one minute on each side. You’re looking for a nice char and to ensure they’re cooked through but still juicy. Remove the shrimp and set them aside; you’ll be adding them back in later to absorb all that garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and cook it briefly for about 30 seconds until you start to smell that amazing aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of your reserved pasta water to create a silky, luscious sauce. This step is where the magic happens—watch as the cheese melts and the sauce thickens right before your eyes. Give it a quick taste and add salt if you feel it needs a little more seasoning.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Now, add your cooked linguine directly into the creamy garlic sauce and toss thoroughly to make sure every strand is coated with that rich, garlicky goodness. Fold the cooked shrimp gently into the pasta, blending everything harmoniously. This is the moment when the flavors really meld together and your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe comes to life. Serve it right away to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds not only a burst of color but a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. If you like a little extra kick, red pepper flakes or an additional dusting of Parmesan cheese bring the dish over the top. The garnishes truly elevate your presentation and flavor experience.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, which balances the creaminess beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that savory sauce. Simple roasted vegetables can add a healthy, colorful contrast to your plate too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls to showcase each shrimp and swirls of sauce artfully. Drizzle a little of the extra sauce over the shrimp on top and sprinkle additional herbs or microgreens for an elegant touch. You could even try this recipe with different pasta shapes to switch up the texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp and pasta will keep well for up to two days, but the sauce may thicken, so be prepared to adjust when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is not ideal as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy after thawing. If you must freeze, consider freezing just the shrimp and cooking fresh pasta and sauce later for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the shrimp from overcooking or the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully because of its shape and texture, you can substitute with fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan to keep it flavorful yet dairy-free.
How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?
Shrimp cook very quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep a close eye during the searing step.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?
You can season the shrimp ahead of time and even cook the pasta earlier, but it’s best to make the sauce fresh and combine everything just before serving to ensure the creaminess stays intact.
What can I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses make great substitutes and provide a similar salty, nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a true winner whether you’re cooking a simple dinner or impressing guests. With its rich, garlicky sauce and tender shrimp, it offers comfort and elegance rolled into one dish. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for a reason—it’s just that good. So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe features perfectly cooked linguine tossed in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce with Cajun-spiced shrimp for a flavorful and satisfying seafood pasta dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
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.
- Season 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 pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it adhere to the pasta.
- Adjust spices to your preferred heat level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor in the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
