Elegant Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This garlic shrimp pasta has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce coats each strand of linguine perfectly while plump garlicky shrimp adds that restaurant-quality touch that makes everyone think you've been cooking all day.

I first made this pasta when trying to impress my partner on our anniversary but was short on time. The look on their face when they tasted it told me everything I needed to know. Now it's our special occasion go-to that feels fancy but doesn't keep me away from the celebration.

Ingredients

• Linguine pasta forms the perfect base for catching all that delicious sauce
• Raw shrimp provides the star protein best when bought already peeled and deveined for convenience
• Butter adds richness and helps create that silky sauce texture
• Olive oil prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle flavor
• Garlic brings essential flavor best when freshly minced
• Heavy cream creates that luxurious sauce everyone craves
• Parmesan cheese thickens the sauce and adds incredible umami depth
• Old Bay seasoning optional but adds wonderful complexity to the shrimp
• Fresh parsley brightens the whole dish with color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of well salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until just al dente about 9 minutes. Reserve a full cup of that starchy pasta water before draining this is essential for creating the perfect sauce consistency later.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet melt one tablespoon butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer giving them space to cook properly. Season with salt pepper and Old Bay if using. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Watch carefully as overcooked shrimp become tough. Remove to a plate and set aside.

Create the Sauce Base

In the same skillet without cleaning it melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and cook for exactly 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned as burnt garlic turns bitter. Immediately pour in the heavy cream using a spatula to scrape up all those flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Finish the Sauce

Add the grated parmesan and stir until completely melted. The sauce will be thick at this point. Gradually add splashes of reserved pasta water while stirring until you reach your desired consistency something that will coat the pasta but still flow. Let it simmer for about a minute to come together.

Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce and toss until every strand is beautifully coated. Return the shrimp to the pan and gently fold them in to warm through without further cooking. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley both for flavor and that beautiful color contrast.

Save Pin

The first time I made this dish I completely forgot to reserve the pasta water and tried using regular water to thin the sauce. Big mistake. The starchy pasta water is truly the secret ingredient that transforms the cream and cheese into a silky restaurant quality sauce that hugs every piece of pasta perfectly. Now I place a measuring cup right next to the pasta pot as a reminder.

Making it Ahead

Ideally this dish should be enjoyed immediately after cooking when the pasta is perfectly al dente and the sauce is silky smooth. If you absolutely need to prepare components ahead of time cook the shrimp and store them separately from the pasta. When ready to serve prepare the sauce fresh and simply warm the shrimp through at the last minute. The dish comes together so quickly there is little advantage to making it ahead anyway.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay complements the creamy garlic flavors without overwhelming them. For a complete meal add some garlic bread on the side to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. I like to serve this in warmed bowls to keep everything at the perfect temperature for as long as possible.

Customization Options

While this recipe is spectacular as written you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Substitute chicken for shrimp if seafood isnt your thing. Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist or toss in some fresh spinach at the end to wilt into the sauce for added nutrition. Want some heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a wonderful warm spice that works beautifully with the garlic. My favorite variation is adding a splash of white wine before the cream which adds wonderful complexity to the sauce.

Save Pin

Common Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this pasta dish?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. For best results, thaw before cooking. If cooking from frozen, expect some liquid to release - simply simmer it down for about a minute (without overcooking the shrimp). Pre-peeled and deveined shrimp will save prep time.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides the richest texture, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. For a dairy-free alternative, try full-fat coconut milk (though this will add coconut flavor). Avoid milk as it won't create the same creamy consistency.

→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or peas make excellent additions. Add leafy greens at the end, while heartier vegetables should be sautéed after the shrimp and before making the sauce.

→ What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?

While the recipe calls for linguine, any medium pasta shape works well. Try fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Shapes with ridges or curves will hold more of the delicious cream sauce.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, increase the Old Bay seasoning or substitute with cajun seasoning. You can also add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or a dash of hot sauce to the finished dish.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat which can make the shrimp tough. Microwave on medium power, stopping to stir halfway through heating.