Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A 15-Minute Gourmet Delight
If you’re craving a rich, restaurant-style dinner that comes together in a flash, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your new weeknight hero. With juicy shrimp, a luscious garlic-parmesan cream sauce, and al dente pasta, it’s indulgent yet quick—ready in just 15 minutes. Whether it’s a cozy meal for one or a dish to impress, this recipe never fails.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Lightning fast: From prep to plate in under 15 minutes.
- Pantry-friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
- Flavor-packed: Garlic, butter, and Parmesan create an irresistible sauce.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with veggies, spices, or different proteins.
- Elegant yet easy: Feels fancy without any complicated steps.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Craving something rich, comforting, and fast? This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta delivers big on flavor with buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly coated noodles—all in just 15 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, an impromptu date night, or you’re hosting friends for dinner, this dish feels fancy without the fuss.
Course: Main Course Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Prep Time: 5minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10minutes minutes Total Time: 15minutes minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 8 oz linguine (or spaghetti/fettuccine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp butter, divided
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (thawed if frozen)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Old Bay or Cajun seasoning (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼–½ cup reserved pasta water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine to al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and optional Old Bay or Cajun seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat, add the remaining ½ tbsp butter to the skillet, and stir in minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and gently scrape any brown bits from the pan for extra flavor.
4. Melt in the Parmesan
Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Gradually add reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Return shrimp to the pan and stir gently until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Tips & Variations
- Using frozen shrimp? Thaw fully and pat dry to avoid watery sauce.
- No heavy cream? Use whole milk with a teaspoon of cornstarch for a lighter version.
- Pasta swaps: Spaghetti, penne, or even zoodles work well.
- Add-ins: Try spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas for a veggie boost.
- Spice it up: Red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning give a nice kick.
- Herb alternative: Substitute basil, thyme, or chives for parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and lemon wedges.
- Serve with garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the sauce.
- A glass of white wine (Chardonnay or Vermentino) adds elegance.
- Top with extra Parmesan or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 330–350 kcal
- Protein: 28–30 g
- Fat: 20–22 g (Saturated: 10–12 g)
- Carbs: 30–35 g
- Sodium: ~1,400 mg (depends on seasoning and cheese)
Tip: For lower carbs, use less pasta or serve over sautéed zucchini or steamed veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Use whole milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch. The result will be lighter but still creamy.
How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?
Cook just until pink—about 30–60 seconds per side—and remove from heat.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Cook pasta and shrimp separately. Store sauce in the fridge, then reheat all components together.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter, non-dairy cream, and vegan Parmesan alternatives.
Why This Pasta Recipe Shines
This dish is proof that you don’t need hours—or a dozen ingredients—to make something incredible. The garlic butter cream sauce is rich but not heavy, the shrimp add fresh protein, and the Parmesan finishes it with savory depth. Whether you’re new to cooking or a kitchen pro, it’s nearly impossible to mess this one up.
Final Thoughts
For a quick, luxurious meal that feels special any night of the week, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta delivers in every way. It’s fast, flavorful, and effortlessly impressive—perfect for everything from casual dinners to date night. Serve it up hot, share it with someone you love, or enjoy every bite solo with your favorite wine. Either way, this dish is a keeper.
