Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Quick & Protein-Packed Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a quick, protein-packed dinner. Enjoy tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic cream sauce in under 30 minutes.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Pasta Base
01 -
12 oz linguine or fettuccine
02 -
1 tbsp Salt, for pasta water
→ Succulent Shrimp & Aromatics
03 -
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
04 -
2 tbsp olive oil
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
→ Velvety Cream Sauce
07 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
08 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
09 -
1 cup heavy cream
10 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Fresh Finish & Brightness
12 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp Salt. Cook 12 oz linguine or fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. This forms the hearty base for your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Quick & Protein-Packed Dinner.
02 -
While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
03 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the same skillet. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
04 -
Pour in 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
05 -
Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. This rich sauce is key to your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Quick & Protein-Packed Dinner.
06 -
Add the cooked and drained linguine or fettuccine and the sautéed shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency. Ensure everything is well coated for a truly satisfying Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Quick & Protein-Packed Dinner.
07 -
Stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Serve your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Quick & Protein-Packed Dinner immediately for the best flavor and texture.
# Notes:
01 -
Don't overcook the shrimp! They cook quickly and can become rubbery if left on the heat too long.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
03 -
Feel free to swap linguine for penne or rotini, or add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce for extra greens.
04 -
Serve this delicious pasta with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all the creamy sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Tongs
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 706 kcal
Total Fat: 40 g
Total Carbohydrate: 52 g
Protein: 35 g