Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe – Quick & Easy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 30mins | 4 Servings
When it comes to easy yet impressive meals, few dishes can compete with creamy shrimp pasta. This recipe brings together tender shrimp, silky pasta, and a luscious cream sauce that feels restaurant-quality but is simple enough to make at home. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a date-night meal, or a family gathering, this shrimp pasta recipe delivers both flavor and elegance.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make creamy shrimp pasta step by step, tips for cooking shrimp perfectly, variations to try, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to prepare a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
Restaurant-worthy taste – Creamy, garlicky, and perfectly seasoned.
Versatile – Works with spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.
Customizable – Add vegetables, herbs, or a spicy kick.
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s practical. With pantry staples and fresh shrimp, you can create a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for the best shrimp pasta:
Pasta: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine work best.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen (peeled and deveined).
Butter & Olive Oil: For a rich flavor base.
Garlic: Fresh cloves for bold, aromatic taste.
Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious, creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, nutty finish.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Fresh Parsley: To brighten the dish.
Optional add-ins: Red pepper flakes for heat, spinach for greens, or sun-dried tomatoes for depth.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make creamy shrimp pasta at home:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook your pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet.
Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add more butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently.
Add Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.
Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Combine Everything
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce.
Add the shrimp back into the skillet.
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
What to Serve with Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Pair your pasta with:
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Green Salad – A fresh side balances the richness.
Roasted Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini make great pairings.
White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements shrimp beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta
Classic Style: Cheese, onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Deluxe Style: Lettuce, tomato, onions, burger sauce
Spicy Style: Jalapeños, spicy mayo, pepper jack cheese
BBQ Style: Bacon, onion rings, BBQ sauce
Mushroom Swiss: Sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, garlic mayo
Variations to Try
One of the best parts about shrimp pasta is its flexibility. Try these variations to switch things up:
Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Shrimp Alfredo Pasta: Use more Parmesan for a richer Alfredo-like sauce.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Skip the cream and keep it light with garlic, butter, and lemon.
Veggie Shrimp Pasta: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Tomato Shrimp Pasta: Add marinara or cherry tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving (1 bowl of shrimp pasta)
- Calories550 kcal
- Protein32 g
- Carbohydrates45 g
- Fat28 g
- Saturated Fat14 g
- Cholesterol220 mg
- Sodium600 mg
- Fiber3 g
- Sugar3 g
FAQ's on Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Q1. Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp pasta?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra water in the skillet.
Q2. What’s the best pasta shape for creamy shrimp pasta?
Fettuccine and linguine work best because they hold onto the creamy sauce, but any pasta works.
Q3. Can I make it lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich.
Q4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
Q5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meal, creamy shrimp pasta is the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s as satisfying as anything you’d order at a restaurant.
Whether you enjoy it for a cozy dinner at home or as the star of a dinner party, this recipe is sure to win hearts.
