The Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Dive into a luscious plate of The Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, where tender shrimp meet a rich, velvety sauce over perfectly cooked fettuccine. This dish is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance, ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. The secret lies in its creamy garlic sauce, infused with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, creating a harmony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone who enjoys indulgent pasta dishes, this recipe promises a delicious experience that’s simple yet extraordinary.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes The Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta truly stand out is the balance between its creamy sauce and the fresh, juicy shrimp. Unlike other pasta dishes that can feel heavy or overly rich, this recipe combines the silky texture of heavy cream with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese and the bright aroma of garlic. The addition of Italian seasoning adds a subtle herbaceous note that elevates the dish without overpowering the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Using fettuccine pasta instead of thinner noodles allows the sauce to cling beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The shrimp are cooked just right: tender and slightly caramelized, delivering that perfect bite alongside the creamy pasta. This dish is also incredibly quick to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings when you want something impressive but fuss-free.

If you love seafood pasta, you might also enjoy exploring Classic Shrimp Scampi Lemon Garlic for a lighter, citrus-infused twist or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Linguine when you’re in the mood for a spicy kick.

Ingredient Checklist

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta – This wide, flat pasta is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or thawed from frozen, tails removed.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star flavor that infuses the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the rich, creamy base of the sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – To cook the fettuccine pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking shrimp and making the sauce.
• Colander – To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and shrimp.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.

Build The Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Infuse Garlic Flavor

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of your sauce.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Let the cream reduce slightly, thickening for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. The sauce will become luxuriously creamy and cheesy, perfect for coating the pasta.

Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Pasta

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Then add the drained fettuccine pasta. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender shrimp in every bite!

For a slightly different shrimp experience, check out Pan Seared Shrimp to see how different cooking techniques can elevate your seafood dishes.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Serve with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette in spring for a fresh contrast.
• Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans in summer for bright, crunchy sides.
• Add a side of garlic bread during fall to soak up the creamy sauce.
• In winter, complement with a warm bowl of roasted root vegetables or sautéed mushrooms.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Overcooking shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Remove them as soon as they turn pink.
• Burning garlic – Garlic should be sautéed just until fragrant; burnt garlic imparts bitterness.
• Not reserving pasta water – This starchy water helps loosen the sauce for perfect consistency.
• Adding cheese too quickly – Slowly add Parmesan to avoid clumping and grainy sauce.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the shrimp and sauce up to a day in advance. Store them separately from the pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce and shrimp on low heat, stir in the pasta, and add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to refresh the sauce. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well for up to 2 days.

Ask & Learn

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, but the sauce might be less rich and creamy. Adjust seasoning accordingly to keep the balance of flavors.

Is it necessary to peel and devein the shrimp?

Peeling and deveining shrimp improves texture and presentation and removes any grit or bitterness. If using pre-cleaned shrimp, you can skip this step to save time.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic will bring a nice heat. Alternatively, you can serve it with a drizzle of spicy chili oil or mix in a bit of Cajun seasoning.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal for its wide shape, penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work great. Just adjust the cooking time as per the pasta type.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try Pan Seared Shrimp for a simple, flavorful shrimp preparation perfect to add to salads or tacos.
• For a spicy pasta variation, explore Creamy Cajun Shrimp Linguine that blends heat with creaminess beautifully.
• Love lemon flavors? The Classic Shrimp Scampi Lemon Garlic offers a zesty twist that’s equally quick and delicious.

See You at the Table

Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with The Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta. This dish marries simplicity with indulgence, making it a go-to recipe for cozy nights or special occasions. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a comforting dish that tastes far more complex than the few ingredients it requires. Grab your fork and dig into this creamy delight—you deserve it.

Share on Pinterest