Creamy Shrimp and Pasta Recipe: A Restaurant-Quality Dish Made at Home

Looking for an easy yet impressive pasta dish? This creamy shrimp and pasta recipe combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic, and a luscious, creamy sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s a quick recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes, yet it feels like something you’d order at your favorite Italian restaurant. Follow these simple steps to create a creamy shrimp pasta that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Shrimp and Pasta

• Fettuccine or linguine pasta – 8 oz (about half a box)
• Shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Chicken or vegetable broth – ¼ cup (for a lighter sauce)
• Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Red pepper flakes – ½ tsp (optional, for a hint of spice)
• Lemon zest – 1 tsp (optional, for brightness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

1. While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness with a splash of pasta water if needed.
4. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest (if desired) for added flavor.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles in the sauce.
2. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Let everything heat through for 1-2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the creamy shrimp pasta to serving plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, parsley, or red pepper flakes for added spice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp and Pasta