The Creamiest Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe You’ll Ever Taste

Twirling a fork through a delectable garlic shrimp pasta that melts in your mouth with rich, silky notes.

Seafood lovers will absolutely adore this incredible dish packed with incredible flavors.

Mediterranean kitchens inspire such magical combinations of tender shrimp and smooth sauce.

Each bite promises a culinary adventure that feels both comforting and exciting.

Delicate garlic undertones complement the succulent seafood in ways that transform an ordinary meal into something spectacular.

Simple ingredients come together with minimal effort to create an impressive plate.

Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs can elevate this recipe from good to extraordinary.

You’ll want to savor every single delicious forkful of this restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

What Makes Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta So Crave-Worthy

• Savor Speedy Seafood Satisfaction: This creamy garlic shrimp pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you crave restaurant-quality food without complex preparation.
• Elevate Everyday Flavors: The combination of smoky paprika, zesty garlic, and rich Parmesan creates a bold taste profile that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal everyone will love.
• Master Simple Gourmet Techniques: With just one skillet and basic cooking skills, home cooks can easily create a restaurant-worthy dish that looks impressive but requires minimal culinary expertise, making it ideal for cooking novices and experienced chefs alike.
• Customize Your Comfort: The flexible recipe allows easy ingredient swaps or heat adjustments, letting you personalize the pasta to match your taste preferences or dietary needs without compromising deliciousness.

What You’ll Need For Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Pasta: Soft and tender base for holding the creamy sauce and shrimp.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing pasta flavor during boiling.

• Shrimp, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Seasoned seafood that brings bold and zesty flavors to the dish. Choose fresh, medium-sized shrimp for best texture.

• Butter, Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy and rich sauce base that provides luxurious texture. Select high-quality, full-fat cream for best results.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth and intensity to the sauce. Fresh garlic cloves are recommended over pre-minced.
• Lemon Juice: Bright acidic element that balances the richness of the cream sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.

• Parsley, Extra Parmesan Cheese: Fresh herbs and additional cheese for finishing touches. Fresh parsley provides vibrant color and flavor.

How To Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta At Home

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and sprinkle in salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Drop in the pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect tender-yet-firm texture. Scoop out a small cup of pasta water – this liquid gold will come in handy later. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for its delicious transformation.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned shrimp into the hot pan. Let them dance and sizzle for a couple of minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and look perfectly opaque. Gently transfer the shrimp to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Craft the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter until it starts to bubble softly. Toss in finely chopped garlic and let it release its aromatic magic for a minute or two. Pour in the heavy cream, watching it create a silky pool in the pan. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Stir until the cheese melts into a velvety sauce. Squeeze in a burst of fresh lemon juice and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Step 4: Marry the Pasta and Sauce

Slide the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, twirling and coating each strand. If the sauce looks a bit thick, splash in some of that reserved pasta water to create the perfect consistency. Gently nestle the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, giving everything a loving toss.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Pile the creamy, garlicky pasta onto plates. Scatter some fresh parsley on top and dust with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the dish is steaming and inviting. Get ready for a meal that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy!

Best Tips For Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Success

• Enhance Shrimp Flavor: Marinate shrimp in garlic, paprika, and lemon juice for 15 minutes before cooking to boost depth and tenderness.
• Perfect Pasta Texture: Always cook pasta al dente and save pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, ensuring a silky smooth coating.
• Quick Sauce Rescue: If sauce breaks or separates, whisk in a small splash of cold water or cream to stabilize and restore creamy texture.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a plant-based version that maintains rich, creamy flavor.
• Spice Control: Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference, starting with a pinch and gradually increasing for personalized kick.

How To Store And Reheat Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta The Right Way

• Refrigerate: Transfer the creamy garlic shrimp pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce might separate slightly, which is normal.
• Reheat Stovetop: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to help restore the sauce's creamy consistency. Stir gently to prevent breaking the shrimp.
• Microwave: Reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Add a tablespoon of liquid to prevent drying out and maintain sauce texture.
• Avoid Freezing: Cream-based sauces and shrimp do not freeze well, as they can become grainy and lose their original texture when thawed.

Perfect Pairings For Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enhance the creamy, garlicky shrimp pasta with a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These light, zesty wines cut through the richness of the sauce while complementing the seafood's delicate flavor.
• Serve with Garlic Bread Sidekick: Create the perfect accompaniment by toasting crusty French bread with garlic butter. The crispy, aromatic bread will soak up the luxurious sauce and provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Add Fresh Herb Salad Accent: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will cleanse the palate and add a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.
• Match with Sparkling Water Twist: Elevate the dining experience with a citrus-infused sparkling water. The bubbles and hint of lemon will refresh your taste buds and cut through the creamy sauce, making each bite more enjoyable.

Creative Ways To Enjoy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Spicy Mediterranean Fusion: Swap smoked paprika for za'atar spice blend, add chopped kalamata olives, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired seafood pasta.
• Cajun Seafood Style: Replace seasonings with Cajun spice mix, include diced bell peppers and andouille sausage, and finish with green onions for a New Orleans-inspired version.
• Herb-Infused Coastal Version: Incorporate fresh chopped basil and thyme into the cream sauce, use white wine instead of lemon juice, and garnish with toasted pine nuts for an aromatic Mediterranean flair.
• Creamy Coconut Tropical Spin: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, add a touch of ginger, use lime juice instead of lemon, and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical profile.

Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Questions Answered

• What makes this garlic shrimp pasta special?

The combination of smoky paprika-seasoned shrimp and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a restaurant-quality dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make at home.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry with paper towels, and season as directed. Ensure they’re well-drained to prevent excess water in the sauce.

• How spicy is this pasta with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that’s easily adjustable. You can add more for extra kick or skip them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Linguine or fettuccine are ideal, but you can also use spaghetti or penne. The key is choosing a pasta that will hold the creamy sauce well.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory garlic shrimp pasta dances with rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, bringing Mediterranean flavors straight to your kitchen. Tender shrimp nestled among silky noodles promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Seafood:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 1 pound (450 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

Seasonings and Spices:

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce and Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Fill a spacious pot with generously salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Submerge the pasta and cook until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Carefully extract 1/2 cup of starchy cooking liquid before draining the pasta, then set aside.
2. Season the shrimp with a vibrant blend of smoked paprika, aromatic garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high flame. Sear the shrimp quickly, approximately 1-2 minutes per side, until they transform into a delicate pink hue and become translucent. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
3. Without cleaning the skillet, reduce heat to medium and introduce butter. Allow it to melt and shimmer, then add finely chopped garlic. Sauté until the kitchen fills with an enticing fragrant aroma. Pour in rich heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Incorporate Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and develops a silky consistency. Brighten the sauce with a splash of fresh lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Gently fold the cooked pasta into the luxurious cream sauce, ensuring each strand is elegantly coated. If the sauce appears too dense, gradually introduce reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency. Tenderly reintroduce the seared shrimp, folding them into the creamy mixture.
5. Artfully distribute the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an additional dusting of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the dish remains piping hot and invitingly aromatic.

Notes

• Prevent rubbery shrimp by cooking just until they turn pink and opaque, avoiding overcooking which makes them tough and chewy.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce for spice enthusiasts who crave extra kick.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this creamy, luxurious dish without dietary restrictions.
• Enhance protein options by substituting shrimp with chicken or tofu for versatile meal preparation that suits different dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 670
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 200mg