Delightful Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, deveined; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of ½ lemon

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

June 5, 2025

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The aroma of creamy garlic shrimp pasta wafts through my kitchen like an invitation to a delicious culinary dance party. Just imagine tender shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, swirling amongst perfectly al dente spaghetti. This dish doesn’t just taste amazing; it feels like a warm hug on your taste buds!

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we gathered around the table. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together—whether it’s date night or a casual dinner with friends. Get ready for an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic shrimp pasta is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with rich flavors and a silky texture, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and worthy of any special occasion.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices!

I remember the first time I made this dish; my best friend’s eyes lit up like a kid on Christmas morning when she tasted it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Use whole-wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if you prefer; it works just as well for this recipe.
Large Shrimp: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp; deveined is best for ease and convenience.
Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an unbeatable flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic superstar.
Heavy Cream: Provides that luscious creaminess; half-and-half can be used if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while sautéing the shrimp.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce; save some for garnishing!
Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also elevates flavors; use flat-leaf parsley for the best taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the dish’s overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances out the richness of the cream.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over medium-high heat. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side. Set them aside.

Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Add Flavor: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese while whisking until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Toss Everything Together: Add cooked spaghetti and sautéed shrimp into the sauce. Mix well until everything is coated beautifully in that rich, creamy goodness.

Add Finishing Touches: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over pasta and toss in chopped parsley for brightness. Serve immediately while still warm!

Now you have a delightful plate of creamy garlic shrimp pasta that’s ready to impress! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about how easy it was to create such culinary magic right at home.

You Must Know

This creamy garlic shrimp pasta elevates your dinner game with minimal effort.
The delightful aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Best of all, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the garlic and shrimp together until they are golden, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This ensures everything is perfectly timed and ready to go at once.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition, making it your own creation.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to revive its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your shrimp is fresh for the best flavor; frozen shrimp works too but thaw them properly.
Don’t rush the garlic; burnt garlic ruins the dish’s delicate flavors.
Lastly, save some pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency beautifully.

I remember the first time I made this creamy garlic shrimp pasta for my friends—they couldn’t believe how simple yet delicious it was! They devoured every last bite and asked for seconds, leaving me feeling like a culinary rock star.

FAQ

What can I use instead of shrimp in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken, tofu, or even vegetables like mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

How long does it take to prepare creamy garlic shrimp pasta?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—quick and delicious!

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