This creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta is a real treat! With shrimp cooked to perfection and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a comforting dish that’s super easy to whip up.
You might find yourself twirling the pasta around your fork way too many times! I always add extra parmesan because, well, why not? 😄 Enjoying this dish just makes my day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine and linguine work well here, but you can use any pasta shape you like! Spaghetti or even penne would be a great alternative if you’re looking for something different.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish, but feel free to use medium shrimp or even cooked frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them first if using frozen.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds the best flavor. If you’re in a hurry, pre-grated cheese is fine, but fresh is always my go-to! You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor! If you’re in a bind, garlic powder can work, but I highly recommend sticking to fresh for the best results.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy Without Clumps?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce is essential here. To avoid clumps when adding cheese, ensure your cream is warm before incorporating cheese. Stir continuously until it melts fully.
- Start with medium heat for the cream; if it’s too hot, the cheese will seize up.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly to help it blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Always use fresh cheese, as pre-grated varieties have additives that can affect the melting process.
With these tips, you can enjoy a velvety sauce that pairs perfectly with your shrimp and pasta! Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for shrimp seasoning)
For the Sauce:
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta takes about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for prepping the ingredients and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your fettuccine or linguine pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Season the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if you want that extra flavor!). Make sure they’re well coated.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the Cheese:
Next, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is nice and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Finish with Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to warm through and combine flavors.
9. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta!
This dish is hearty yet simple, ideal for impressing family or friends on a special occasion or simply enjoying a comforting meal at home!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can easily do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a cashew cream blend.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Definitely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus would be delicious additions. Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream for a colorful and nutritious boost!
