Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti or fettuccine; 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I love making Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce because it combines the rich flavors of garlic and creamy sauce with perfectly cooked shrimp. Each time I prepare this dish, I'm reminded of cozy dinners where each bite transports me to a seaside restaurant. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, making every mouthful a delightful experience. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both special occasions and busy weeknights.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:49:34.647Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce, I was amazed by how quickly everything came together. The key is to cook the shrimp just right; they should be tender and juicy, not overcooked. I learned that sautéing them in butter with garlic enhances their flavor dramatically. To ensure a perfect cream sauce, I always add the cream slowly while stirring, which prevents it from separating and gives that luxurious texture they crave.

This dish has become a favorite in my household because everyone loves the combination of seafood and creamy sauce. I sometimes throw in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color. It's a versatile recipe that I encourage everyone to try, whether as a simple family dinner or as an impressive meal for guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that coats every strand of pasta
Succulent shrimp that add a touch of elegance
Quick preparation time perfect for busy weeknights

Key Techniques for Success

Cooking the pasta correctly is crucial for this dish. Make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water before adding your spaghetti or fettuccine. This not only flavors the pasta but also enhances the overall taste of the dish. Cook it until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the brand. Al dente pasta will hold its shape and texture better when tossed with the creamy sauce, ensuring a delightful bite every time.

When sautéing the shrimp, keep a close eye on the cooking time. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. They should turn a bright pink color and curl up slightly, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. Removing the shrimp from the skillet once cooked will prevent them from continuing to cook in residual heat. This attention to timing is key to achieving perfectly succulent shrimp.

Ingredient Insights

The heavy cream is the star of the sauce, creating that luxurious, velvety texture that defines this recipe. It’s essential to keep the cream at a gentle simmer rather than a boil to avoid curdling. If you want to lighten the dish, consider substituting the heavy cream with a half-and-half mixture or even an unsweetened plant-based cream for a dairy-free option, but note that the richness may be slightly reduced.

Using fresh garlic will elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly. I recommend mincing your garlic just before cooking to capture its aroma and flavor at their peak. If you're in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic, but I find that fresh cloves make a noticeable difference in taste, providing a robust, aromatic profile that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy sauce might thicken in the fridge, so when reheating, add a splash of water or additional cream to bring it back to the desired consistency. Gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce.

For a unique twist, consider serving this dish with a side of garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the pasta. You can also toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color. Feel free to experiment with seasonings such as red pepper flakes to kick up the heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing brightness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create an irresistible shrimp pasta dish:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or fettuccine
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious shrimp pasta:

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the cream sauce

In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and stir well, scraping any bits off the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. If it's too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Combine everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta well in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the sauce for spiciness. Additionally, you can add vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

Common Troubleshooting

If your sauce is too thick after simmering, don’t hesitate to use the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Start by adding a tablespoon at a time, stirring until you achieve your desired consistency. Thin sauces can easily be adjusted, ensuring that the pasta is perfectly coated without being overly heavy.

Alternatively, if your sauce tastes a bit bland, try adjusting the seasoning. A pinch of salt can amplify the flavors significantly, while a dash of freshly cracked black pepper will add depth. Remember that cheesier garnishes like Parmesan can also contribute to the overall flavor profile when served on top.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings. For double the servings, simply follow the same quantities but keep in mind that cooking time, especially for the pasta, may vary slightly. A larger pot can help accommodate increased volume while ensuring even cooking without clumping.

Make sure there’s enough skillet space when combining the shrimp and pasta; you may need to use two pans if you're scaling up significantly. This ensures that each strand of pasta gets adequately coated with the creamy sauce and that the shrimp can be evenly distributed for a delightful meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you prefer will work well.