I love a good pasta dish, and one of my favorites has to be the creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe. This dish is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make. I remember the first time I tried it; I was at a friend’s dinner party. The aroma of garlic and shrimp wafting through the kitchen made my mouth water. I had to get the recipe, and now I am excited to share it with you!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
To make this creamy garlic shrimp pasta, you will need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
Pasta:
- 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti
- Salt for boiling water
Shrimp:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Cook Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Cooking the pasta is the first step in this recipe. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta.
Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. I usually check a minute or two before the time is up. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, it’s time to prepare the shrimp. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Once the shrimp are cooked, it’s time to make the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the shrimp and garlic.
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese. I love how the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Now comes the best part! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy shrimp sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This will also help the sauce adhere to the pasta better.
Finishing Touches
Once everything is combined, add the lemon juice. This adds a nice brightness to the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes, a little more salt or pepper can make a big difference.
Serving Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
To serve, plate the creamy garlic shrimp pasta and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. The green color adds a nice contrast to the creamy sauce. You can also add extra Parmesan on top if you like. Trust me; it makes everything even better!
Tips
Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years to make this dish even more delicious:
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp always tastes better than frozen. If you can, buy shrimp from a local fish market.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them while cooking.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of cream used or substitute with half-and-half.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta pairs well with various sides and drinks. Here are some of my favorites:
- Salads: A light Caesar salad or a simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Wine: A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, goes perfectly with this dish.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or pasta water to help restore the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave or heat in a skillet until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
The creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of garlic, shrimp, and creamy sauce is simply irresistible.
Cooking can be a joyful experience, especially when you have a delicious recipe like creamy garlic shrimp pasta to try. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do.