There’s something magical about the combination of tender shrimp, a rich garlic cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet with Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal that feels fancy without the fuss. Imagine a cozy evening at home: the aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen, and in under 30 minutes, a restaurant-quality dish is ready to serve.
This recipe was inspired by classic Italian coastal dishes, where fresh seafood meets creamy, luscious sauces and pasta is the perfect vehicle to soak up every last drop. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, casual weekend dinners, or even a special date night at home. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise flavor; in fact, the ease of preparation is what makes it irresistible to both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs.
Ingredients
-
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
12 ounces linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
-
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
-
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
-
Extra Parmesan for serving
Directions
-
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
-
Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This ensures a flavorful, golden sear.
-
Sear the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
-
Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and the garlic fragrant.
-
Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly for 3–5 minutes.
-
Season the sauce: Add smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Add cheese and lemon: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth, then mix in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
-
Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the creamy garlic sauce. Heat for 1–2 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through.
-
Incorporate pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
-
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra Parmesan over the top. Serve immediately for a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
-
Prep Time: 10 minutes
-
Cook Time: 20 minutes
-
Total Time: 30 minutes
-
Yield: 4 servings
Notes
-
Shrimp tips: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Smaller shrimp can become rubbery quickly.
-
Pasta options: Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work perfectly. Whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier twist.
-
Make it spicy: Increase crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
-
Cream alternatives: Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be slightly thinner.
-
Leftovers: Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or pasta water.
-
Serving suggestions: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Why This Pasta Dish Works Every Time
The Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet with Pasta excels because of the balance of textures and flavors. Searing the shrimp creates a tender, juicy bite, while the garlic-onion base adds depth. The cream sauce, enriched with Parmesan and brightened with lemon juice, clings to every strand of pasta, making each bite comforting and luxurious.
This recipe also shines in its versatility. You can adjust the spice level, swap herbs, or choose different pasta types to match your preference. It’s a one-skillet wonder (minus the pasta pot), which means less cleanup without compromising flavor.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
-
Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking shrimp in a single layer ensures even searing and prevents steaming.
-
Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce a vibrant, aromatic depth that dried garlic can’t match.
-
Adjust seasoning gradually: Tasting as you go ensures perfectly balanced flavors.
-
Finish with fresh herbs and lemon: Parsley adds color, and lemon juice brightens the rich, creamy sauce.
-
Reserve pasta water: A splash of starchy pasta water helps loosen the sauce if needed and helps it cling beautifully to the noodles.
Pairing Ideas
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with:
-
Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
-
Salads: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.
-
Bread: Garlic bread or focaccia is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
-
Wine or mocktail: Serve with sparkling water or a light non-alcoholic beverage to keep the flavors bright.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, this dish provides a good nutritional profile. Shrimp are high in protein and low in calories, rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Garlic may support heart health and immunity. By pairing these ingredients with fresh parsley and a moderate amount of cream, you get a flavorful, satisfying dish without excessive heaviness. Opting for whole wheat pasta or a side of vegetables can further increase fiber and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp are a convenient option if fresh shrimp aren’t available. The key is to thaw them properly before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor. The easiest way is to place the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about 15–20 minutes, changing the water once or twice until fully thawed. Avoid using warm or hot water, as this can start cooking the shrimp unevenly and result in a rubbery texture. Once thawed, make sure to pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because any excess water can dilute the creamy garlic sauce, preventing it from achieving that silky, luxurious consistency. Properly dried shrimp will also sear beautifully in the skillet, giving you a flavorful, golden exterior. If you skip drying them, the shrimp may steam instead of sear, and the sauce could become thinner than desired.
2. How do I prevent the cream sauce from separating?
A creamy garlic sauce can sometimes split or curdle if it’s exposed to high heat. To avoid this, it’s important to simmer the sauce gently instead of letting it boil vigorously. High heat can cause the fat in the cream to separate from the liquids, resulting in a grainy texture rather than a smooth, luscious sauce. Additionally, when adding Parmesan or other cheeses, it’s best to incorporate them off the heat or on very low heat. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and integrated into the sauce. Another helpful tip is to add a splash of pasta water or broth to adjust the consistency, which can help prevent the sauce from breaking while also making it cling perfectly to the pasta.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but with some considerations. The cream sauce itself can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This is convenient for meal prep or entertaining, as it allows you to have the flavorful base ready. However, the shrimp are best cooked fresh to maintain their tender and juicy texture. Reheating shrimp can easily lead to overcooking, making them rubbery. To assemble the dish ahead of time, cook the sauce first, store it, and then quickly sear the shrimp just before combining everything with the pasta. This method ensures that every bite of shrimp is perfectly cooked while still benefiting from the convenience of pre-prepared sauce.
4. Can I use lighter cream substitutes?
Yes, there are several options if you prefer a lighter version of this dish. Half-and-half or evaporated milk can replace heavy cream, though the resulting sauce will be slightly thinner and less rich. To compensate, you can reduce the liquid slightly while simmering or add a small amount of cream cheese for extra creaminess. Greek yogurt is another alternative, but it should be added at the end of cooking over low heat to prevent curdling. Each substitute will slightly alter the texture and richness of the sauce, but with careful handling, you can still achieve a flavorful, creamy garlic shrimp pasta that satisfies every craving.
Final Thoughts
The Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet with Pasta is a culinary triumph that combines convenience, flavor, and elegance. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or romantic evenings at home. The creamy garlic sauce clings to every strand of pasta while juicy shrimp add protein and texture, creating a dish that satisfies both comfort and gourmet cravings.
This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or exotic ingredients to create something extraordinary. With fresh ingredients, a few simple steps, and a little love, you can enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp pasta in under 30 minutes.
Whether served over linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti, this dish promises indulgent flavors, beautiful presentation, and the satisfaction of a homemade meal that impresses every time. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this creamy, garlicky, irresistible pasta dinner—you’ll want to make it again and again.
Print
Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet with Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
There’s something magical about the combination of tender shrimp, a rich garlic cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet with Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal that feels fancy without the fuss. Imagine a cozy evening at home: the aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen, and in under 30 minutes, a restaurant-quality dish is ready to serve. This recipe was inspired by classic Italian coastal dishes, where fresh seafood meets creamy sauces and pasta perfectly soaks up every drop. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or a special date night, offering a flavorful and satisfying experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
-
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
12 ounces linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
-
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
-
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
-
Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
-
Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
-
Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Add smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
-
Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth, then add fresh lemon juice.
-
Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Heat 1–2 minutes until shrimp are warmed through.
-
Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
-
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
-
Use large shrimp for the best texture; smaller shrimp can become rubbery.
-
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work; whole wheat pasta is a healthier option.
-
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes for desired heat.
-
Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be thinner.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or pasta water.
-
Pair with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
