If you are craving a dish that is both indulgent and packed with flavor, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a must-try. It’s a harmonious blend of tender shrimp, creamy parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine that effortlessly elevates a simple weeknight dinner into a delicious celebration. The garlic infuses every bite with warmth, while the subtle spices add just the right amount of kick. This recipe combines rich textures and fresh, vibrant elements making it a favorite for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, all of which are easy to find and bring an essential element to the dish. Each ingredient balances the others perfectly, from the succulence of the shrimp to the creaminess of the sauce and the brightness of fresh parsley.

8 ounces linguine pasta: Offers the perfect long, flat texture to hold onto the luscious sauce.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity aroma and helps cook the shrimp evenly.
1 ½ tablespoons butter (divided): Provides a rich, silky base to the sauce and adds depth to the flavor.

1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): Delivers tender, juicy bites that take center stage in this dish.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the shrimp or cream sauce.

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just a hint of heat and complexity to the overall taste.
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Brings a classic seafood spice mix that complements the shrimp beautifully; smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning can add a smoky twist.
1 clove garlic (minced): The star flavor—the aromatic touch that makes this dish shine.

½ cup heavy cream: Creates an irresistibly creamy and smooth sauce with a luxurious mouthfeel.
½ cup parmesan (grated): Adds savory, nutty notes that enrich the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous contrast and vibrant color for garnish.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by bringing a medium-sized saucepan filled with water to a boil, seasoning it generously with salt. Cooking the linguine until al dente is crucial for texture—it should have a slight bite to complement the creaminess of the sauce. Before draining, be sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water, which will be your secret weapon to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the shrimp and season them immediately with salt, black pepper, and your choice of Old Bay seasoning for that iconic seafood flavor. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; this usually takes about a minute per side. If you have a lot of shrimp, do it in batches to avoid overcrowding and overcooking. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining ½ tablespoon of butter, then add the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds to release those heavenly aromas but be careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and use your spatula to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the shrimp cooking—this step creates a richly layered sauce base.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Adjust Sauce

Sprinkle the grated parmesan into the pan, allowing it to melt fully into the cream, thickening the sauce. To loosen things up and ensure the sauce coats the pasta beautifully, slowly stir in some reserved pasta water, letting it simmer gently for a minute. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed to strike the perfect balance.

Step 5: Combine and Warm Through

Toss the cooked linguine into the sauce until every strand is luxuriously coated. Return the shrimp to the pan, gently stirring to reheat them without overcooking. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top as a finishing touch, adding color and a fresh herbal note before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of extra parmesan or freshly cracked black pepper as a garnish elevates the dish right before serving. A few lemon wedges on the side also work wonders, offering a bright, citrusy lift that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce and shrimp.

Side Dishes

Keep the sides simple to let the main dish shine. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed asparagus tossed with lemon and olive oil complements the flavors without overwhelming your palate. Crusty garlic bread is another fantastic choice for soaking up every bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try serving your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished with whole sprigs of parsley or basil. Drizzle a little olive oil or a dash of chili flakes on top for a touch of elegance and heat. You can also try layering the pasta in a large serving dish with fresh herbs scattered on top, making it irresistibly inviting for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta tastes great the next day; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the pasta from drying out, make sure to store it with some of the sauce. Consume within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

While freezing pasta with shrimp is doable, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately if possible. Shrimp can become rubbery after freezing and reheating, so store the cooked shrimp and sauce in individual containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid high heat as it can toughen the shrimp and cause the sauce to separate. Stir occasionally to evenly warm everything through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine is ideal for its flat shape that holds sauce well, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type to maintain that perfect al dente texture.

Is it okay to substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

You can try substituting with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To help thicken the sauce with lighter dairy, consider adding a bit of flour or cornstarch, but for the authentic creamy taste, heavy cream is recommended in this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe.

What can I add if I want a little spice?

For those who love heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic, or stir in some hot sauce to taste. Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay also adds a delightful spiciness that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While shrimp is central to this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe, you can substitute with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers to keep things hearty and flavorful for a vegetarian version.

How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Shrimp cooks quickly—usually within 2-3 minutes total. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque with slightly curled tails. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep a close eye during the cooking process for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of those treasure dishes that bring comfort and a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends, it delivers big on flavor with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try and savor the joyful experience of making and eating something truly delightful.