This Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a quick and easy dish that combines succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic sauce. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something delicious without too much fuss. The combination of juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich sauce makes this dish irresistible. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet, along with the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid overcooking.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water to the sauce helps achieve a silky, well-coated texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley add a bright and flavorful touch to the dish.
Recipe Variations
- Tomato Shrimp Pasta: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the garlic for a burst of freshness.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetable Shrimp Pasta: Add spinach or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking for added veggies.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: Serve the shrimp pasta with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- With a Green Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad, such as arugula or Caesar salad, for a well-balanced meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
This Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The recipe is simple to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal right at home!
