Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Quick 30-Minute Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delightful 30-minute dinner, perfect for busy weeknights. Rich flavors, simple steps.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Pasta & Protein Core
01 -
12 oz linguine or fettuccine
02 -
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
→ Aromatic Foundation & Richness
03 -
2 tbsp olive oil
04 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
05 -
6 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 small shallot, finely diced
07 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Creamy Embrace
08 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
09 -
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
10 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
→ Freshness & Flavor Boosters
11 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
12 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
13 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Peel and devein 1 lb large shrimp. Mince 6 cloves garlic and finely dice 1 small shallot. Chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the 12 oz linguine or fettuccine. This sets the stage for your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: 30-Minute Dinner Delight.
02 -
Cook 12 oz linguine or fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Season shrimp with salt and black pepper, then cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
03 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the same skillet. Add minced 6 cloves garlic, finely diced 1 small shallot, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
04 -
Pour in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. This forms the luscious base for your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: 30-Minute Dinner Delight.
05 -
Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
06 -
Add the cooked 12 oz linguine or fettuccine and cooked 1 lb large shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Stir in 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan and parsley for a perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: 30-Minute Dinner Delight.
# Notes:
01 -
For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce won't be as rich.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
03 -
Don't skip the fresh lemon juice at the end; it brightens the rich sauce beautifully and cuts through the creaminess.
04 -
Adjust the 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to your preference. For more heat, add a full teaspoon; for less, omit it entirely.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Tongs
04 -
Whisk
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 715 kcal
Total Fat: 34 g
Total Carbohydrate: 64 g
Protein: 42 g