This creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor! The tender shrimp and the rich, cheesy sauce make every bite a treat.
I love how quick it comes together—perfect for those busy nights when I want something delicious without all the fuss. Just don’t forget the garlic bread on the side! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti works best here. If you’re gluten-free, try using zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a lighter version.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are key for this dish, but you could use medium or extra-large shrimp. If seafood isn’t your thing, chicken or sautéed tofu can make a great alternative.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or use cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano works well too. Nutritional yeast is a good cheesy substitute for a vegan option.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but feel free to use olive oil for a dairy-free option or to add a different flavor dimension.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
To achieve juicy, tender shrimp, always watch the cooking time. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Here are some tips:
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They should curl slightly when done.
- Remove them as soon as they’re cooked to avoid carrying over heat. You can always add them back into the sauce later.
Following these tips will help you serve perfect shrimp every time, making your pasta dish even more enjoyable! 😊
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
For The Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For The Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and oregano
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare, with a little extra time for cooking the pasta. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to help with the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice). Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring often to avoid burning. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not browned!
4. Build the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) and scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens a little, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
Season the sauce with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking. Now, return the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and dig in!
This meal creates a rich, creamy, and garlicky pasta dish with perfectly sautéed shrimp. It’s a surefire way to impress your family or guests—or simply treat yourself to a comforting dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
If you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use a dairy-free option like almond or coconut cream. This will still give a nice creaminess without all the richness.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of pasta water or broth to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken when chilled.
What’s a Good Alternative to Pasta?
If you want to keep it low-carb or gluten-free, spiralized zucchini, spaghetti squash, or even cauliflower rice can be great substitutes in place of pasta. Just cook them quickly and add them to the sauce with the shrimp!