🍤 Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to 20-minute dinner! Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy one-pot dish combines juicy shrimp, garlic butter, lemon, and Parmesan. Quick to make, easy to clean up.
If you’re craving a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, shrimp and pasta is the perfect choice. This savory combination of tender shrimp and flavorful pasta creates a meal that’s both light and filling.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to impress your guests, shrimp and pasta offers a delicious, versatile option for any occasion.
History and Origin of Shrimp and Pasta Dishes
Shrimp and pasta dishes have long been a staple in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, celebrated for their simplicity and fresh flavors. The combination of seafood with pasta dates back centuries, reflecting coastal traditions where fresh catch meets local grains. This dish embodies the perfect balance of land and sea, combining tender shrimp with al dente pasta and bright, zesty ingredients like lemon and garlic. Its popularity has spread worldwide because it’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Pasta Recipe
✓ One-pot wonder: Less cleanup!
✓ Packed with protein & flavor
✓ Kid-friendly and customizable
✓ Ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
8 oz linguine or your favorite pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon, 2 teaspoon dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, 2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Shrimp and pasta Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
🔥 Pro Tip: For extra spice, add red pepper flakes with the garlic!
Sauté Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the white wine and let it simmer for about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Reduce heat. Add cream and parmesan, stirring until melted.
Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
Toss pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed for silky texture.
Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained linguine. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
Finish and Garnish:
Stir in the lemon juice and mixed fresh herbs (parsley and basil). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Divide the Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta among plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
💡 Chef’s Notes
- Storage: Keeps 3 days in fridge (sauce thickens – loosen with milk when reheating)
- Shrimp Swap: Chicken works too! Sauté diced chicken breast first.
- Pasta Tip: Gluten-free? Use brown rice pasta.
Nutritional Benefits
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for many diets. It’s rich in important nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. The fresh lemon juice and zest provide vitamin C and antioxidants, while garlic offers immune-boosting properties. Using fresh herbs like parsley adds not only flavor but also vitamins and minerals. This dish is a nutritious, balanced meal that fuels your body without weighing you down.
Cooking Shrimp Perfectly
- For the best flavor, use the freshest shrimp and herbs you can find. If possible, buy shrimp with the shells on and peel them yourself.
- To check if shrimp are cooked, look for a pink color and firm texture; avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
- For extra nutrition and color, toss in vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini just before combining with the pasta.
- If you prefer, substitute gluten-free pasta or use chicken or scallops instead of shrimp.
Variations and Substitutions
This shrimp pasta’s versatility makes it perfect for customization:
🍝 Pasta Options
• Swap linguine for: spaghetti, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta
• Low-carb alternative: zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles
🦐 Protein Swaps
• Seafood: Scallops, crab, or firm white fish (like cod)
• Vegetarian: Sautéed mushrooms, artichokes, or tofu
• Poultry: Diced chicken breast (sauté first)
🌶️ Flavor Twists
• Spicier: Extra red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika
• Umami boost: 1 tsp fish sauce or anchovy paste
🥬 Veggie Add-Ins
Add 1-2 cups of:
• Spinach (toss in at the end)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Zucchini (sliced thin)
🍋 Pro Serving Tips
- Garnish with extra lemon zest + chopped herbs
- Finish with high-quality olive oil drizzle
- For max freshness: Use shell-on shrimp and chop herbs last-minute
Buying and Preparing Shrimp
When shopping for shrimp, freshness is key. Look for shrimp that are firm, with a mild ocean scent—not fishy. Buying shrimp with shells on can help preserve flavor and moisture; peel them just before cooking for best results. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and pat dry to avoid excess water in the pan. Deveining shrimp is optional but recommended for a cleaner taste and presentation.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist.
For more easy seafood dishes, check out a fresh and nutritious complement to this meal.
Tips for Buying and Preparing Shrimp
When shopping for shrimp, freshness is key. Look for shrimp that are firm, with a mild ocean scent—not fishy. Buying shrimp with shells on can help preserve flavor and moisture; peel them just before cooking for best results. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and pat dry to avoid excess water in the pan. Deveining shrimp is optional but recommended for a cleaner taste and presentation.
Perfect Pairings: Side Dishes and Wine Suggestions
To complete your meal, pair this shrimp pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For drinks, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus and seafood flavors beautifully. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir can also work well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp for creamy pasta?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or in a bowl of cold water (30 mins). Key tip: Pat them extra dry with paper towels to prevent watery sauce – this is the 1 mistake people make!
What’s the best pasta for creamy shrimp recipes?
Linguine (#1 choice) or fettuccine hold sauce best, but penne works great for busy families (less messy for kids!). Pro secret: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water – it makes the sauce silkier!
How to make creamy shrimp pasta gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta (Barilla or Banza work well) and cornstarch instead of flour to thicken. Bonus: Swap regular pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb version!
What can I use instead of wine in shrimp pasta?
3 best substitutes:
• Chicken broth + 1 tsp lemon juice (most popular)
• Apple cider vinegar (1/2 tbsp)
• White grape juice (for sweetness)
How do you not overcook shrimp in pasta?
Cook shrimp separately first (2-3 mins max!), then add back at the end. They’re perfect when they form a “C” shape – if they curl into an “O”, they’re overdone!
What veggies go well in shrimp pasta?
Top 3 customer favorites:
Sun-dried tomatoes (for tang)
Spinach (stir in at the end)
Mushrooms (sauté with garlic)
Can I meal prep shrimp pasta?
Yes! But store sauce separately from pasta (lasts 3 days). Reheating tip: Add a splash of milk when microwaving – restores creaminess!
Related Recipes
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges – Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with garlic and Parmesan flavor. A perfect side for pasta or grilled dishes
Rustic Bacon & Avocado Bistro Salad – A hearty and fresh salad with smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and tangy vinaigrette. Great as a starter or light dinner.
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