Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of pasta coated in a luscious, creamy sauce with tender shrimp that’s bursting with flavor. This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe brings together the perfect balance of rich creaminess, a hint of spice, and the fresh brightness of parsley, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. It’s quick to prepare yet feels indulgent — a true comfort food that’s both elegant and approachable.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta stands out because it combines simple ingredients into a dish that tastes like it took hours to make. The shrimp are seasoned just right, sautéed to perfection, and then enveloped in a dreamy garlic cream sauce that clings beautifully to linguine noodles. The addition of Parmesan brings a subtle salty depth, while fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbaceous note. Plus, you can have this on the table in under 30 minutes!

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to add more variety to your pasta nights, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (buy frozen shrimp and thaw if needed)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional – or substitute with smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
• ½ cup (40 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

How To Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

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

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them with salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (or smoked paprika/Cajun seasoning if you prefer). Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on one side until pink and slightly golden. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Add the cooked linguine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to your preference. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to get a nice sear.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – they cook very quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency; it helps the sauce cling to the noodles perfectly.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• If you like more garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two when sautéing.
• For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or sprinkle some on top before serving.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color and nutrients.
• Herb Swap: Try fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a sharper flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Swap linguine for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Non-Dairy: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy garlic shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough and the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of cream, milk, or water to help loosen the sauce while reheating. Avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of the shrimp and cream sauce may be compromised.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine works beautifully here, you can use fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter or dairy-free option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or use coconut cream or cashew cream for a non-dairy alternative. Keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor and texture.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time. If you do, add them to the sauce at the very end just to warm through, as cooking them too long will make them rubbery.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh before serving to maintain the best texture. Store components separately and combine just before eating.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that transforms a handful of simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Its rich, garlicky cream sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp and tender linguine is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers on flavor, comfort, and ease. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying plate of creamy, garlicky goodness tonight!