Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes and basil with succulent shrimp and a luscious creamy sauce, then Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is exactly what you need on your dinner table tonight. This vibrant, satisfying meal balances rich flavors with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The creamy tomato sauce envelops perfectly cooked linguine and tender shrimp, while fragrant basil brings that bright, herbal note that ties everything together beautifully.

Why Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is Worth Your Time

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this dish. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for busy evenings when you want something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Second, the combination of ingredients is simple yet packed with flavor, creating a comforting, restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. The shrimp cooks quickly, the sauce comes together in one pan, and the fresh basil adds a garden-fresh aroma that’s hard to resist.

Plus, this recipe uses pantry staples like canned diced tomatoes and basic pantry seasonings, so you likely have everything on hand. The creamy tomato sauce is rich but balanced by the acidity of tomatoes and the brightness of basil, making it utterly crave-worthy. And if you love seafood, pairing shrimp with pasta is a classic that seldom disappoints.

If you’re interested in a twist on shrimp in your dinner repertoire, you might want to check out Cajun Shrimp Andouille Style Rice Skillet next time for a spicier, heartier option.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 oz linguine pasta – the perfect noodle to carry the creamy tomato sauce
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – fresh or thawed, ensuring tenderness
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and depth of flavor
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – adds aromatic punch
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – the base for your sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream – gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped – for that vibrant herbal freshness
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
• Parmesan cheese for garnish – optional but highly recommended for extra flavor

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – to boil the linguine pasta perfectly
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking shrimp and preparing the sauce
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring sauce without scratching your pan
• Chef’s knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic and chopping basil
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your proportions spot on

Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta — Do This Next

Step 1: Cook Your Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—be careful not to burn it. Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, and stir. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly and deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Add Cream and Basil

Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it gently simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Then fold in the chopped fresh basil, reserving a little for garnish.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. Add the drained linguine pasta and toss gently. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Plate the creamy tomato basil shrimp pasta and garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and remaining basil. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Pasta: Swap linguine for fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne depending on what you have in the pantry.
• Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined chicken breast strips as a non-seafood alternative.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option).
• Diced Tomatoes: Use fresh chopped tomatoes if you prefer a fresher sauce, just increase the simmer time slightly.
• Basil: If fresh basil is unavailable, try fresh parsley or a spoonful of Homemade Basil Pesto to add that herbaceous kick.

Things That Go Wrong

• Shrimp overcooked and rubbery: Shrimp cook very fast; overcooking makes them tough. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Sauce too thin: Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it or add a small cornstarch slurry to thicken.
• Sauce too thick: Use reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it without diluting flavor.
• Garlic burnt: Garlic cooks quickly and burns easily. Cook it on medium or medium-low heat and stir constantly.

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for best texture, as shrimp can become rubbery and the sauce may separate.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry so they sauté evenly and don’t release too much water into the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy? How can I add heat?

This Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is mild by default. If you want some kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the garlic for a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance, it’s best to toss with the pasta just before serving to avoid sogginess. Store components separately and combine when ready to eat.

What kind of Parmesan cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-grated powders as they don’t melt as well and lack the depth of fresh cheese.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Cajun Shrimp Andouille Style Rice Skillet – a spicy, hearty one-pan meal with bold flavors
• Homemade Basil Pesto – a vibrant sauce that’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken – a rich and comforting chicken dinner
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp – a quick and flavorful shrimp dish with bright citrus notes

Wrap-Up

Making Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is a wonderful way to bring a touch of elegance to your meal with minimal effort. The marriage of creamy tomato sauce, fresh basil, and tender shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that feels luxurious yet homey. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious dinner that feels like it took hours to prepare. Don’t forget to garnish generously with Parmesan and enjoy every bite alongside a crisp salad or your favorite bread.

Happy cooking!

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