Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta

Name: Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I love making Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta on busy weeknights because it’s so quick yet incredibly indulgent. The rich, velvety cream sauce perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, creating a dish that feels gourmet. I often toss in a handful of fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the ideal choice when I'm short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:24:44.217Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The silky cream sauce envelops the pasta so beautifully, and I learned that sautéing the shrimp in garlic before adding the cream made all the difference in flavor. I now always add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various herbs and spices, but a hint of lemon zest always brightens the dish without overpowering it. This simple yet effective technique elevates it to something extraordinary, making my family ask for more every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent cream sauce that coats the pasta beautifully
Juicy shrimp that adds a burst of flavor and protein
Quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive for guests

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the heart of this dish and achieving the right consistency is essential for the perfect coating on your pasta. Make sure to start with heavy cream, which has a higher fat content that lends a rich and velvety texture. When you gradually incorporate the Parmesan cheese into the sauce, it not only adds flavor but also helps thicken it. If you notice the sauce is becoming too thick, the reserved pasta water should be your go-to fix. Add it a couple of tablespoons at a time until you reach that luxurious, glossy finish.

Pay attention to the heat level when making your cream sauce. Cooking it over medium heat is ideal to prevent the cream from scalding and creating an unpleasant texture. You want to see gentle simmering, not boiling bubbles. Stirring continuously will help maintain an even temperature and avoid any curdling, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. If it does curdle, a quick whisk might help revive it, but do be gentle to avoid breaking the sauce.

Incorporating additional ingredients can elevate this base sauce even further. A dash of white wine before adding the cream contributes an aromatic layer, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a kick. Feel free to experiment! Just remember that any extra ingredients should harmonize with the rich profile of the cream and shrimp, enhancing rather than overpowering.

Perfect Pasta Cooking Tips

Cooking the pasta correctly is crucial, especially since it's the main vehicle for the sauce. Always cook it in a large pot of generously salted boiling water; this is your chance to season the pasta itself. Aim for just beyond al dente as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. This should take about 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta you choose. When draining, be sure to reserve that pasta water, which can help adjust sauce thickness later.

If you're short on time, try using thinner pasta such as angel hair, which can cook in just 4-6 minutes. Conversely, if you're a fan of heartier textures, opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta, but keep in mind these might require different cooking times. Always taste the pasta for doneness instead of relying solely on cooking times; it should be firm yet tender with a slight bite.

Another tip for pasta perfection is to toss it immediately with a little olive oil after draining. This prevents it from sticking together and makes it easier to combine with the sauce later. Embrace this small step; it can significantly impact the overall texture of your dish, ensuring each noodle is beautifully coated and separates easily when plated.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta in no time!

Ingredients

8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Make sure all ingredients are prepared before starting to cook for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta.

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the cream sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat. If using cherry tomatoes, stir them in now. Allow everything to heat through for a couple minutes.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving and enjoy your creamy, delicious pasta!

Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will enhance the dish and add a lovely depth of flavor.

Shrimp Selection and Sautéing

When selecting shrimp for this recipe, look for large or extra-large shrimp, as they provide better flavor and texture compared to smaller varieties. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you opt for frozen, be sure to thaw them thoroughly. A quick rinse under cold water will also help remove any excess ice. Properly deveined shrimp not only look more appealing but also improve the tasting experience, so don't skip this step if your shrimp are not prepped.

Sautéing shrimp quickly over medium heat is essential to achieving that tender, juicy bite. Aim for just 3-4 minutes of cooking until their color transforms into a vibrant pink and they turn opaque. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing. If necessary, do this in batches to maintain that coveted texture. The goal is to sear the shrimp until they’re firm and slightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.

For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 15-30 minutes prior to cooking. A simple marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of paprika can not only infuse the shrimp with flavor but also tenderize them, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers—or if you're planning ahead—this shrimp cream sauce pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to transfer it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. However, be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so it’s wise to add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water when reheating.

Reheating can be done easily in a skillet over low heat. Add a bit more cream or olive oil to help revive the sauce's consistency, and stir frequently to ensure even heating. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and overcooked shrimp. Aim for a gentle warm-through instead to preserve the flavor and texture of the dish.

If you want to take your meal prep a step further, consider batch cooking the shrimp and sauce separately. This way, you can quickly toss them with freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to eat. It keeps the meal fresher and helps maintain that lovely creamy texture that we all love!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you love, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use low-fat cream substitutes for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat while adding freshly cooked pasta.

→ What can I add to make it more filling?

Consider adding cooked spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.