Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; Salt, for boiling water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely love this Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce! It's a dish that combines the succulent flavors of shrimp with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that has become a staple in my kitchen. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The blend of fresh ingredients and fragrant herbs truly elevates the dish, making it perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or special occasions. I can't wait to share how you can make this delicious pasta yourself.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:37:37.774Z

When I first made shrimp pasta with garlic cream sauce, I was amazed by how the fragrant garlic infused the dish with an irresistible aroma. The secret, I found, is to sauté the garlic just until it’s fragrant before adding the cream. That way, you get a robust flavor without the bitterness that can come from overcooking it. I also like to finish it off with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.

Another tip I discovered is to use fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. It adds a fresh layer that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Trust me, this is a dish that will make you feel like you’re dining at a five-star restaurant, all from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp perfectly paired with al dente pasta
Rich, creamy sauce with a garlic flavor that sticks to every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Pasta

The choice of pasta can significantly influence the dish's overall texture and flavor. I recommend using fettuccine or spaghetti, as their long strands can easily embrace the creamy garlic sauce. When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a bit of bite. This texture helps the pasta hold up against the sauce and the shrimp without getting mushy.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta varieties. Just remember to check the cooking times, as they can differ from traditional wheat pasta. Whichever type you choose, make sure to salt the boiling water generously; this is the primary opportunity to season the pasta itself.

Perfecting the Garlic Cream Sauce

The garlic cream sauce is the star of this dish, and mastering it requires attention to the garlic's cooking time. Sauté the minced garlic in olive oil until it's fragrant and slightly golden, usually taking about one minute. Be cautious, as garlic can burn quickly; charred garlic has a bitter taste that can overpower the sauce. If you accidentally burn it, start over for a balanced flavor.

When incorporating the heavy cream, do so slowly while stirring to ensure it combines smoothly with the garlic without separating. The goal is to bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly. If the sauce isn't as thick as you'd like, simmer it a bit longer, watching for a glossy finish that indicates readiness.

Shrimp Cooking Tips

Cooking shrimp is quick, but timing is crucial to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough. Add the shrimp to the simmering sauce and cook until they turn pink and opaque, typically around 3-4 minutes. Be sure to give the shrimp some space in the pan to ensure even cooking; overcrowding can lower the skillet's temperature.

If you're using frozen shrimp, thaw them in advance under cold running water or in the refrigerator overnight. This prevents them from releasing excess water into the sauce, which can dilute its richness. Additionally, the addition of lemon juice brightens the flavors. Adjust the amount based on your taste—more for a tangy kick or less for a milder flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water

For the Garlic Cream Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp lemon juice

Make sure to choose high-quality shrimp for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn.

Make the Cream Sauce

Slowly add the heavy cream to the skillet with garlic. Stir and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is slightly thickened.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they are pink, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Serve garnished with chopped parsley.

Pair this dish with a crisp salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider marinating the shrimp in garlic and lemon juice for 15 minutes before cooking.

Storing and Reheating

This Shrimp Pasta can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy weeknights. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp pasta. Assemble the shrimp and sauce, but cook the pasta until just under al dente. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a bit of added cream to maintain the sauce's richness.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shrimp Pasta, serve it with a refreshing side salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cream sauce, providing a nice contrast in textures and flavors. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a bit of zest from lemon enhances the overall presentation and taste.

This dish adapts well to variations; consider adding vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition. Toss them in with the shrimp during the last minute of cooking. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist to the classic garlic flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them before cooking. Make sure to dry them well to avoid excess water in the sauce.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

While the pasta is best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add the cooked pasta and shrimp.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.