Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This creamy garlic shrimp pasta delivers comfort and elegance in just 20 minutes. Succulent shrimp are simmered in a silky Parmesan cream sauce rich with garlic and butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick way to impress guests.

The first time I served this at a family gathering it disappeared faster than any dish I had made before. Since then it has become my go-to when I want to wow with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: Choose wild-caught if possible for best taste and texture
• Fresh garlic: Essential for that bold savory aroma and depth
• Dry white wine or chicken broth: Adds acidity to balance the richness
• Cream: Look for reduced fat or use heavy cream depending on your preference
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated offers better melt and flavor
• Butter: Unsalted gives you more control over seasoning
• Parsley: Adds color and freshness at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper and cook them for one to two minutes on each side until pink and just cooked through. Transfer shrimp to a bowl and set aside

Sauté the Garlic:

Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about thirty seconds until fragrant. Pour in wine or broth and simmer until reduced by half scraping up any browned bits from the pan

Simmer the Cream:

Lower the heat to medium low and stir in the cream. Let it come to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste

Melt the Parmesan:

Add grated Parmesan to the simmering cream. Let the sauce cook for another minute until the cheese melts and it thickens to a smooth consistency

Combine and Garnish:

Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed

Serve and Enjoy:

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta rice or steamed vegetables. Spoon the shrimp and sauce over your choice and serve immediately

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My favorite part is always the garlic bubbling in butter before the wine hits the pan. That aroma fills the kitchen and always reminds me of late Sunday dinners when everyone gathers just as the meal is finishing

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high which may overcook the shrimp and split the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have white wine try using good quality chicken broth. Light cream or even evaporated milk can work in place of heavy cream for a lower fat version. For extra zing a few drops of lemon juice can lift the richness of the sauce

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp is perfect over fettuccine spaghetti or linguine. For a lighter meal serve with cauliflower rice steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad. A warm slice of garlic bread makes it indulgent

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Cultural Context

This style of cream and garlic based sauce has roots in classic French and Italian cuisine where butter and dairy form the base of many seafood sauces. Over time home cooks around the world adapted the concept for quicker weeknight versions using more accessible ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove them promptly to keep them tender.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them fully and pat dry to avoid extra moisture affecting the sauce.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

Use high-quality chicken broth as an excellent alcohol-free substitute that still enhances flavor.

→ What type of cream works best?

Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but light cream, half-and-half, or even evaporated milk are great options.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions and add depth to the flavor.