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Benjamin

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of rich, creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and al dente pasta. Made with a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, a hint of spice, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, this dish is bursting with flavor. It’s quick, easy, and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz 340g pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
  • 1/2 tsp salt for boiling water
For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup 240ml heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup 50g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sear the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  7. Add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp: They only need a few minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
  • Reserve pasta water: A splash of starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and keeps it from becoming too thick.
  • Adjust spice level: If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes. If you prefer a mild flavor, leave them out.
  • Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well and may affect the sauce’s texture.

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