Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

 

🍤 Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe: A Rich, Comforting Dish You’ll Crave Again and Again

If you're looking for a dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to impress guests, this creamy shrimp pasta is a winner. Packed with succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce, it brings comfort and flavor together in one satisfying bowl.

Best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes!

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (about 225 g) fettuccine, linguine, or pasta of your choice

• Salt, for the pasta water

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes for a mild kick

For the Cream Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice for brightness

• Optional: Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

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🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

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2. Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and butter.
Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, and paprika or chili flakes (if using).
Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.

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3. Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant (don’t let it brown).

Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your liking.

Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

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4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Return the shrimp to the pan and mix gently to combine.

Let everything cook together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld.

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5. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil and extra Parmesan if desired.
Add a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for extra flavor.

• Lighter version: Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or use half cream and half milk.

• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.

• Use other proteins: Chicken or scallops also pair beautifully with this creamy sauce.

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🧠 Final Thoughts

This creamy shrimp pasta is everything you want in a comfort food dish—simple, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're cooking for your family, a date night, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

So go ahead—pour yourself a glass of wine, fire up the stove, and enjoy the magic of this classic creamy shrimp pasta. 🍷🍝