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: 8 oz fettuccine; Salt, for water; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich flavors of this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a quick and delectable dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes! Bursting with succulent shrimp, a velvety garlic-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish will elevate your weeknight meals and impress your guests. It's a delightful blend of comfort and elegance that's sure to satisfy every pasta lover.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-15T07:05:27.658Z

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a special dinner party.

A Creamy Delight

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, marrying tender pasta with succulent shrimp in a rich, creamy sauce. The addition of garlic provides a fragrant and savory foundation that enhances the overall flavor, making each bite an indulgent experience. This dish isn't just filling; it's also incredibly satisfying, perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game while still maintaining a sense of comfort.

This dish is versatile and can be modified according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a hint of spice with red pepper flakes or a pop of freshness with lemon zest, the possibilities are endless. Additionally, you can substitute the fettuccine with other types of pasta, such as linguine or penne, creating a new experience each time you prepare it. This flexibility makes it a staple in any pasta lover's recipe collection.

Quick and Easy

One of the best features of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its quick preparation time. With just 30 minutes needed from pantry to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you're looking for a delicious yet effortless solution. The combination of a few high-quality ingredients ensures that there’s no compromise on flavor, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Furthermore, this dish allows for convenient meal prep. You can easily cook the garlic shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, allowing you to quickly toss everything together when you arrive home. This makes weekday cooking simple, enabling you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a well-deserved meal with family or friends.

Dine with Elegance

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is also an impressive dish to serve when entertaining guests. Its visually appealing presentation, vibrant colors, and garnishing with fresh parsley not only please the palate but also the eyes. Pair it with a nice salad and a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience that feels gourmet without the gourmet price tag.

The enchanting aroma that fills your kitchen while making this pasta dish will have your guests eagerly anticipating what's to come. The impressive blend of flavors and textures will surely leave them raving about your cooking, making it a memorable experience for everyone at your table.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine
Salt, for water

For the Sauce

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic shrimp pasta!

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

To achieve the perfect al dente texture, it's crucial to follow the package instructions for cooking time while keeping an eye on the pasta. Begin tasting the fettuccine a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. This ensures you don’t overcook it and end up with mushy pasta. A well-cooked fettuccine will hold the creamy sauce beautifully and contribute to the dish's overall texture.

Don't forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to adjust consistency if needed, ensuring that your dish isn’t too thick. It adds depth of flavor and helps bind the sauce to the pasta seamlessly.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus to your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a delightful twist on the classic recipe. These additions not only enhance the dish's nutritional profile but also add vibrant colors and flavors that create a more balanced meal.

If you're looking to add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your dish an exciting kick. Alternatively, swap the shrimp for other proteins such as salmon or chicken to create different flavor profiles, adapting the dish to satisfy various tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if preferred.