Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) pasta — penne or fettuccine; 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream; ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 10 minutesCook time: 20 minutesRest time: 5 minutesTotal time: 35 minutesCooking Temp:190 CServings:4 servingsEstimated Cost:14 $Calories:560 kcal Best Season:Available

Description

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with tender shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family. With simple ingredients and delicious flavors, it’s a restaurant-style pasta dish you can easily make at home.

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Make the garlic sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Finish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough.
Cook the pasta just until al dente so it holds its texture in the creamy sauce.
Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
For extra flavor, serve with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Best served immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta