Creamy Shrimp Pasta is a comforting dinner made with tender shrimp, pasta, garlic, Parmesan, and a rich cream sauce. It comes together quickly and makes an easy weeknight meal that feels restaurant-worthy.
Why This Recipe Works
- Shrimp cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Garlic and Parmesan add rich savory flavor.
- The creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta.
- It can be ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Season and Cook the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and broth. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the Parmesan
Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
5. Combine
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
6. Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Pasta
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from separating.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Shrimp Pasta is a simple combination of juicy shrimp, tender pasta, garlic, Parmesan, and a silky cream sauce. It is an easy 30-minute dinner that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special meals.
