This creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta is a cozy dish that’s sure to please! The juicy shrimp and rich sauce make every bite feel like a warm hug. Yum!
You won’t believe how easy this is to whip up for dinner. I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley on top. Trust me, it looks fancy but only takes minutes to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini, but you can switch it up with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for this dish, but frozen works too—just make sure to thaw it beforehand. If you don’t like shrimp, try chicken or even veggies like zucchini!
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch in flavor! If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work as a quick substitute, but use less than you would fresh.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, swap with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just bear in mind, this will change the richness of the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grating your own cheese gives the best flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can add a similar taste.
How Do You Make Sure the Sauce is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that creamy sauce just right can sometimes be tricky! Here are some tips:
- Start on medium heat when adding the heavy cream. Too high can cause it to curdle.
- Stir constantly until the cream thickens a bit, which should take 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cheese gradually while stirring. This helps it melt evenly without clumping.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it up!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and cooking the pasta, and the rest of the time will involve preparing the creamy sauce and shrimp. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the rotini (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the rest.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, making sure they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously, letting it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Add Cheese and Combine:
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated in that delicious creamy sauce!
5. Finish and Serve:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix gently to combine everything evenly. Serve your creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this wonderfully satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before cooking for the best results!
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a low-fat cream instead of heavy cream. You might lose some creaminess, but it will still taste fantastic! You can also use less butter or even a healthy oil alternative.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or pasta water and warm it gently on the stove or microwave. This will help revive the creamy sauce!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Pasta?
Definitely! Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers when sautéing the garlic. Just cook them until they’re tender before adding the heavy cream. This adds extra nutrition and flavor to the dish!
