Description
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that combines succulent shrimp, garlic, and pasta into one irresistible meal. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation time, this is the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Shrimp: 1 lb (450g), peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen).
Pasta: 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine.
Garlic: 6 cloves, finely chopped or minced.
Butter: 4 tbsp, unsalted.
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp.
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml).
Lemon: 1, juiced.
Chili Flakes: 1 tsp (optional).
Parsley: 2 tbsp, finely chopped.
Substitutions:
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
Vegan alternatives: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use plant-based cream instead of heavy cream.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions (8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta, saving 1 cup of pasta water.Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1 minute). Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (optional).Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted.Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and cream sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.Serve and Garnish:
Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon, toss well, and serve the pasta on plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Healthier Modifications: Use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta to make this recipe lower in carbs. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or almond cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian