This creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta is a dreamy dinner! Juicy shrimp are tossed with pasta in a rich and cheesy sauce that’s full of flavor. Yum!
The best part? It comes together quickly, so you can impress guests without spending all evening in the kitchen. I love enjoying it with a side salad for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti or linguine for this dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using gluten-free pasta or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter option!
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe. If you’re allergic or don’t have shrimp on hand, diced chicken breast or even sautéed mushrooms can work as great substitutes.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, like cashew or coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really elevates this dish. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes. For a vegan option, try dairy-free cheese shreds.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work, but the flavor won’t be quite as punchy. I always prefer fresh when I can get it!
How to Sauté Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be easy, but timing is everything! You want them to be perfectly cooked without becoming rubbery. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and use medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear.
- Season your shrimp before cooking to add flavor. A little salt and pepper go a long way.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them—overcooking is a common mistake!
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done. They’ll continue to cook slightly even once off the heat.
By following these steps, you’ll have juicy and flavorful shrimp every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For the Sauce:
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for cooking the pasta and shrimp, followed by about 10-15 minutes to make the creamy sauce and combine everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta (spaghetti or linguine) and cook following package instructions until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. While the butter melts, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if you’re using it). Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Back in the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly without boiling.
4. Bring it All Together:
Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, mixing until melted and smooth. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Now, add the cooked pasta and the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything gently to ensure the pasta and shrimp are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by stirring in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of flavor and color. Serve immediately on plates or in bowls, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. Enjoy this creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta with a crisp green salad or crusty bread!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to run cold water over them in a colander for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy option like coconut cream. Keep in mind, using a substitute may affect the creaminess and flavor of the sauce slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
What Can I Pair with This Dish?
This pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a touch of brightness, consider a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon! If you prefer bread, a crusty baguette or garlic bread is a great choice to soak up that delicious sauce.