Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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Golden seared shrimp nestled into a bed of perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a luxuriously creamy garlic sauce — that’s the magic of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta. It’s rich, indulgent, and filled with layers of flavor that come together in just one pan. With hints of lemon, butter, and fresh herbs balancing the richness of the sauce, every bite feels like a special occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or trying to impress guests without the stress, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results without requiring complicated techniques or rare ingredients. It’s a dish that speaks of comfort and elegance, making it a favorite for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• The creamy garlic sauce is incredibly flavorful and comes together quickly.
• Shrimp cooks fast, making this a great last-minute meal option.
• Everything is made in one pan — less cleanup, more flavor.
• You can easily adapt it with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms.
• It’s satisfying and filling without being overly heavy.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is your main cooking vessel. A wide surface area helps evenly sear the shrimp and simmer the sauce.
• Medium Pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Tongs or Pasta Fork: Ideal for tossing the pasta with the sauce.
• Microplane or Grater: For finely shredding Parmesan cheese.
• Garlic Press (optional): Speeds up garlic prep, releasing more flavor.
• Ladle or Measuring Cup: Useful for reserving pasta water, a key element for adjusting sauce consistency.

Having the right tools on hand ensures the cooking process flows smoothly and efficiently.

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Preparation Tips

To make your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta truly outstanding, start by patting the shrimp dry before searing — this helps achieve that irresistible golden crust. Use freshly minced garlic for a bold, aromatic base to your sauce. Always reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it helps emulsify the sauce, making it silkier and helping it cling to the pasta. Lastly, don’t overcook the shrimp — they only need a couple of minutes per side. When they curl into a “C” shape and turn opaque, they’re done. Finish with a touch of lemon zest or fresh herbs for a bright contrast to the rich sauce.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) linguine or fettuccine
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (more as needed)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 cup baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

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Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Add them to the hot skillet in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side, or until just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.

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Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring, scraping any browned bits from the pan for added flavor.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Adjust Consistency

Once the cream begins to gently simmer, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add lemon juice and zest for a fresh lift. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat every strand. Return the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 1–2 more minutes, allowing everything to warm through and meld together. If using spinach, toss it in at this stage so it wilts slightly in the heat.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and more cracked black pepper if desired. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of brightness.

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Notes

Using high-quality Parmesan and fresh garlic will make a significant difference in the flavor of the sauce. This dish comes together quickly, so it’s best to have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce to a perfect silky texture without it becoming too thick or clumpy.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp turn rubbery if cooked too long. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and creates a creamy finish.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
• Cooking Sauce on High Heat: Once you add the cream, keep the heat moderate to prevent curdling or separating.
• Not Seasoning in Layers: Taste at each stage and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to a skillet and gently warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the shrimp and break the sauce.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 215mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.

Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and may not thicken as well.

What pasta types work best for this recipe?

Linguine and fettuccine are ideal due to their surface area, but spaghetti or tagliatelle work well too.

How do I make it spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan alternative, though the flavor will differ.

Is it okay to add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus are great additions.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove, but fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients in advance, but for best taste and texture, cook and serve it fresh.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an elegant yet easy dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its velvety sauce, tender shrimp, and a subtle burst of lemon, this pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. Pair it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, and you’ve got a full meal that’s both comforting and impressive.

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