Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

6 servings
Not only is this creamy garlic shrimp pasta incredibly delicious with all that garlic butter parmesan flavor, but it is also so quick and easy to make!

Ingredients

  • peeled
    1 lb
  • smoked paprika
    1 ½ tsp
  • Salt and pepper
  • linguine or spaghetti
    12 oz
  • butter
    1 tbsp
  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • butter
    2 tbsp
  • garlic
    3 clove
  • milk or heavy cream

    not skim

    1 ½ c
  • cornstarch
    2 tsp
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • black pepper
    1 pinch
  • Parmesan cheese
    1 c
  • Chopped

    fresh parsley, for garnish

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

    for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp together with the smoked paprika and a small pinch or so of salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. BEFORE DRAINING, ladle out 1-2 cups of the pasta water and set aside for later. Drain the pasta.

  3. 3

    While the pasta is cooking, heat the 1 tablespoon butter + 1 tablespoon olive oil in a 12-inch skillet (or a deep skillet) over medium heat until hot and rippling. Add half of the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 30-45 seconds; flip the shrimp and cook just until the shrimp have turned pink and are cooked through (it won't take long!).

  4. 4

    Using tongs, remove the shrimp to a plate keeping as much butter/liquid in the pan as possible. Repeat with remaining shrimp - removing to the plate with the other shrimp when done cooking.

  5. 5

    Return the pan to medium heat and melt the 2 tablespoons butter. Add the garlic and cook, stirring often (don't let it burn!), until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.

  6. 6

    If using milk, whisk it together with the cornstarch (see note below). Pour the milk mixture (or heavy cream, if using) into the pan and whisk to combine, letting the sauce bubble and thicken slightly, 1-2 minutes.

  7. 7

    Add the salt, pepper and Parmesan cheese. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted.

  8. 8

    Add the cooked noodles, lifting and tossing with tongs to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce. Add spoonfuls of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and pasta (just eyeball it - probably won't need to add all the reserved water).

  9. 9

    Add the shrimp and toss to combine with the pasta. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if needed! Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

  10. 10

    Serve immediately (for maximum creaminess)! Serve with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

40 min6 servings371 cal

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About this Recipe

Indulge in the Ultimate Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Looking for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet but comes together in a flash? This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your answer! Boasting an irresistible garlic butter parmesan flavor, this dish is not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably quick and easy to make, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something truly satisfying.

What sets this shrimp pasta recipe apart is the rich, velvety sauce that coats every strand of linguine and every succulent piece of shrimp. We're talking plump, tender shrimp sautéed to perfection, then tossed in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan sauce that's pure comfort in a bowl. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, you can have this exquisite meal on the table in under an hour – making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

  • Shrimp Selection: Use fresh or frozen (thawed) peeled and deveined shrimp. Removing the tails makes for easier eating!
  • Pasta Perfection: Cook your linguine or spaghetti al dente, ensuring it still has a slight bite. It will finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Flavor Boost: Don't skip the smoked paprika! It adds a wonderful depth and subtle warmth that complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully.
  • Achieve the Creaminess: The combination of milk (or heavy cream) and cornstarch creates a stable, silky sauce without being overly heavy. Slowly add the Parmesan at the end for the best melt and flavor.

This garlic shrimp pasta is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it further with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan. Serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this simple yet sensational dish!

Frequently Asked Questions