This creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta is a delicious meal that’s quick and easy to make. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and coated in a rich, cheesy sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta!
I love how this dish feels fancy but takes hardly any time. Just cook your shrimp, mix in some creamy goodness, and toss it with your favorite pasta—done and yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for a classic touch, but you can use any pasta you enjoy—penne or fettuccine works great too! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be good alternatives if you’re watching carbs or have dietary restrictions.
Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are best for this dish, but frozen shrimp works well too! Just thaw them overnight in the fridge. If shrimp’s not your thing, diced chicken or even sautéed mushrooms make a good swap.
Heavy Cream: For those who want a lighter option, use half-and-half or evaporated milk. I’ve found that a splash of milk also works great with a touch of cornstarch for thickening. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent curdling!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese is okay but may not melt as smoothly. Pecorino Romano is a nice alternative for a saltier flavor, or try a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Get My Sauce Creamy Without Curdling?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, especially when using dairy. Here are some tips to keep it smooth:
- Cook the garlic over medium heat. Avoid browning it as that can add bitterness.
- When adding heavy cream, ensure your skillet isn’t too hot. Gradually bring it to a simmer to prevent curdling.
- Always stir in the cheese off the heat once the sauce has thickened slightly. This keeps it creamy and helps with melting.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a lovely creamy sauce that beautifully coats your pasta without any lumps!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll enjoy about 10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the other components.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Then, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Using the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, ensuring it becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 2-3 minutes so it thickens a bit.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Next, reduce the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, the rest of the butter (2 tablespoons), the optional crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Stir until the cheese is melted, creating a creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and season it with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Finish the Dish:
Now it’s time to add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with the chopped parsley. Gently stir to mix everything together. Then, add the cooked pasta, tossing it to ensure the noodles are well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta immediately. Garnish with extra parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a delightful touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way is to let them sit in the fridge overnight, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free version made from rice, quinoa, or legume flour. The same creamy sauce will work beautifully with gluten-free pasta.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli would make excellent additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream for a nutritious boost!
