Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is every bit as dreamy as it sounds—a tangle of tender linguine woven through juicy, paprika-kissed shrimp and bathed in an irresistibly silky garlic parmesan sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress a dinner guest or simply treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this recipe brings restaurant-level flavor right into your own kitchen in under an hour.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is how a handful of everyday ingredients can deliver such big flavor. Each component in this lineup plays a starring role, from the juicy shrimp to the fresh parmesan, making every bite crave-worthy.

• Shrimp (1 to 2 pounds, peeled and deveined): Choose large shrimp for the juiciest result (look for a package labeled “21 to 30 per pound”). More shrimp equals more protein-packed bites!
• Smoked Paprika (1 ½ teaspoons): Adds a subtle warmth and a pop of color—regular paprika works if you don’t have smoked.
• Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch in both the shrimp and sauce makes all the flavors pop.
• Linguine or Spaghetti (12 ounces): Either works beautifully—choose your favorite shape for soaking up the sauce.
• Butter and Olive Oil: The dynamic duo for flavor and perfectly sautéed shrimp.
• Garlic (3 to 4 cloves, finely minced): The absolute heart of the dish—don’t skimp!
• Milk or Heavy Cream (1 ½ cups): Milk keeps it lighter, heavy cream makes it extra luscious. Either creates an irresistible sauce.
• Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Thickens the sauce when using milk for that perfect cling.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, freshly shredded): Melts into the sauce for a savory, creamy finish—freshly shredded melts best.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle at the end for color and a burst of freshness.
• Reserved Pasta Water: A splash or two helps make the sauce just the right consistency, silky every time.

Variations

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is blissfully versatile—don’t hesitate to make it your own. With a few swaps or additions, you can tailor this classic to anything you and your loved ones crave or need.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free for a fully celiac-friendly meal.
• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and an extra serving of greens.
• Kick Up the Heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes with the garlic for a pleasantly spicy version that’s still beautifully creamy.
• Lighter Option: Opt for milk instead of cream—just don’t forget the cornstarch for that signature silkiness!
• Dairy-Free Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Try unsweetened cashew cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative for a comforting, dairy-free delight.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Season and Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to help them sear beautifully. Toss them in a bowl with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper—this quick marinade ensures the shrimp are loaded with flavor before they even hit the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add your favorite pasta, and cook until al dente. Remember: before draining, ladle out a cup or two of that starchy pasta water—you’ll use it later to bring the sauce to silky perfection.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a swirl of butter and olive oil in your skillet. Work in two batches, placing the shrimp in a single layer—cook just until pink, about 30–45 seconds per side so they stay tender and juicy. Transfer them to a plate, taking care to keep as much of the garlicky butter as possible in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Melt more butter in the skillet, add the minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (just a quick sizzle!). If you’re using milk, whisk it with cornstarch and pour it in; if you’re going with heavy cream, just add it directly. Bring it to a gentle bubble so it thickens slightly—an irresistible foundation for your sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Toss

Season the creamy sauce with salt, pepper, and fold in generous handfuls of freshly shredded parmesan—stir as it melts into gorgeous silkiness. Add your cooked pasta and splash in reserved pasta water as needed, tossing until every noodle is coated. Return the shrimp to the pan, toss again, and you’re ready for your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta moment!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

Top each plate with a shower of freshly chopped parsley and a final flourish of grated parmesan. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of color and flair for guests who love a little heat.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta shines alongside simply sautéed greens, a fresh arugula salad, or classic garlic bread for sopping up every last drop of that luscious sauce. Even a crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus make for a dinner-party worthy spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the pasta elegantly in shallow bowls with shrimp artfully arranged on top for a restaurant-style presentation, or try family-style in a big, warm platter for a cozy, communal feel. For a fun twist, divide into individual ramekins and broil with extra parmesan until bubbly and golden.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days—making lunch or quick dinners a breeze.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze this pasta, cream sauces do tend to separate and lose some of that signature silkiness upon thawing. If you do freeze, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well as you reheat for the best possible texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave works in a pinch, but stovetop reheating will bring back the best creamy texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving an elegant but effortless dinner, I hope you’ll try this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta soon. Nothing beats that first bite of saucy noodles wrapped around tender shrimp—so grab your skillet and dig in. Happy cooking, friends!

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