Creamy Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers — tender, juicy shrimp tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce with garlic, butter, and Parmesan, all coating perfectly cooked pasta. This dish comes together quickly yet feels indulgent enough for a special dinner. The combination of fresh shrimp, fragrant aromatics, and a luscious sauce creates a restaurant-worthy meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
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8 oz (225g) pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
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1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp butter, divided
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
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¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
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In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
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Sauté the Shrimp:
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Pat shrimp dry, season with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
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Make the Cream Sauce:
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In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
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Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Everything:
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Return shrimp to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
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If sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time.
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Serve:
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.
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Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream.
If you want, I can also give you a garlic butter wine variation of this creamy shrimp pasta that’s extra luxurious. Would you like me to add that?