This creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta is a tasty treat that’s quick to whip up! Plump shrimp and a dreamy sauce come together with spaghetti for a comforting meal.
You know it’s a hit when the kids ask for seconds! I love to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top because, let’s face it, who can say no to more cheese? 🍝🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works best for this dish as they hold the creamy sauce nicely. You can swap it for any pasta you have on hand, like spaghetti or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Shrimp: Large shrimp give a nice bite, but feel free to use medium shrimp or even shrimp that are already cooked for a quicker prep. If you’re allergic, try chicken or sautéed veggies as a substitute!
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich sauce, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work in a pinch, though it won’t be as thick. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal because it melts perfectly, but pre-grated works too. For a non-dairy substitute, nutritional yeast can lend a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can nail it every time! Here’s how:
- Make sure your shrimp are thawed and dried to ensure they sear nicely.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding olive oil. This helps to cook the shrimp quickly and evenly.
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika to add a nice layer of flavor.
- Cook on each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Once they’re done, take them out right away to prevent further cooking! This simple method keeps them juicy and tasty.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and shrimp, and about 15-20 minutes making the sauce and tossing everything together. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your fettuccine or linguine. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika for a little kick. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring everything well. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, which will help the sauce thicken a bit.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the star ingredient—Parmesan cheese! Stir it in until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Toss in the Pasta:
Gently add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with that delicious garlic Parmesan sauce.
7. Final Touches:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix everything gently until combined. Let it heat through for another minute if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thoroughly thaw them first. A quick way to do this is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative. Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just make sure to adjust any seasonings to taste!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stove and add the cooked pasta and shrimp. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up if it thickens too much while stored.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is another great option to soak up any extra sauce! For a lighter option, consider serving it with roasted zucchini or a fresh vegetable medley.
