This creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that’s quick to make. Juicy shrimp swim in a silky sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Cooking this pasta feels like a hug on a plate! I love how it only takes about 30 minutes. Serve it with a sprinkle of parsley, and you’re set for a delicious meal!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using pasta shells for this recipe, as they hold the creamy sauce nicely. However, you can substitute with linguine, spaghetti, or penne if you prefer. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here, but you can use medium-sized shrimp if that’s what you have. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, cooked chicken or even sautéed mushrooms are good alternatives!
Olive Oil or Butter: Use what you have on hand! Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but butter adds a creamy richness. You could also try coconut oil for a unique twist.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind it won’t be as rich. Plant-based cream is also a good replacement for a dairy-free version.
Chicken Broth or White Wine: If you don’t have either, vegetable broth works well too. Some folks even splash a bit of lemon juice for added acidity if using broth.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be quick, but getting it just right makes a big difference! The key is to avoid overcooking, which can make shrimp tough.
- Start with a hot skillet. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter until it’s shimmering.
- Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and half of your Italian seasoning. Add them to the skillet without crowding.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re pink and slightly charred. Remove them promptly to prevent overcooking.
Why is the Garlic Important in This Recipe?
Garlic adds a beautiful flavor that really elevates this pasta. Mince fresh garlic for the best taste, and sauté it until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as that can make the dish bitter.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth?
To achieve that delightful creamy texture, ensure you stir the sauce continuously as you add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This helps everything melt together smoothly.
- Start with the chicken broth or white wine to create a base.
- Add heavy cream and bring it to a low simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly before adding the cheese.
- Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If it’s too thick, you can thin it with a bit more broth or cream.
This creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta is straightforward and can easily accommodate your favorite flavors. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta shells or your preferred pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 15-20 minutes for the shrimp and sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they’re done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are slightly charred. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic and Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—watch it closely, so it doesn’t burn! Then, pour in the chicken broth (or white wine), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts. This will create a deliciously creamy base for your pasta!
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing it to coat evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, the remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them for a bit of heat.
6. Final Touch:
Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything. Allow it to heat through for a minute or two. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta immediately, and enjoy a delightful, comforting dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker results.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich, so consider adding a bit more cheese for extra creaminess!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp in advance, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove while adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.
