Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 4 cups water; 1 tsp salt; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta because it's a delightful blend of flavors and textures that always impresses my family. The creamy sauce, combined with succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a dish that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whenever I need a quick weeknight meal or want to impress guests, this recipe never fails! It's satisfying and rich, but the garlic's brightness cuts through the creaminess, making every bite delicious.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:22:08.630Z

When I first tried my hand at making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I started by sautéing fresh garlic in butter, which not only made my kitchen smell incredible but also created a flavorful base for the sauce. Using a splash of white wine really elevated the dish, adding a depth I didn't expect.

Over the years, I've fine-tuned the recipe, playing around with the amount of cream and cheese. I found that adding some freshly grated Parmesan at the end adds a wonderful saltiness and creaminess. It’s a recipe that I truly enjoy and perfect every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce with a garlic kick
Perfectly cooked shrimp that adds a delightful texture
Quick preparation time, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The shrimp in this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta are the stars of the dish. For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh shrimp, ideally wild-caught. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for optimal juiciness. The shrimp should be cooked just until they turn pink and are opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery. Depending on their size, this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat.

White wine not only enhances the flavor of the sauce but also helps to deglaze the skillet, lifting the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, as sweeter wines can alter the sauce’s flavor. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version that still provides depth to the sauce.

Perfecting Your Sauce

Creating the creamy sauce is where this dish shines. After adding the heavy cream, let the mixture simmer gently to thicken before stirring in the Parmesan cheese. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Keep the heat low during this step to prevent the cream from curdling, which can happen if it boils too vigorously.

When seasoning, be cautious with salt, especially because Parmesan cheese is salty. I recommend adding salt gradually and tasting as you go, so you can control the saltiness perfectly. Achieving a well-balanced sauce is key to complementing the shrimp and pasta, ensuring each bite is wonderfully harmonious.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Sauce

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup white wine
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt and the pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.

Make the Sauce

Pour in ½ cup of white wine, letting it simmer for 2 minutes. Then, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a slight simmer. Mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and high-quality shrimp. You can also swap out the pasta type for your favorite, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta can be partially prepared ahead of time. You can cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet and combine with the freshly made sauce. This will save time on a busy weeknight while still delivering a homemade feel.

The sauce can also be made in advance. Cool it completely and store in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, do so over low heat to avoid curdling, and add a little extra cream or broth to restore its silky consistency. This makes for a quick and satisfying dinner option that feels special.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dish further, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, enhancing that rich, garlicky flavor. A salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh, acidic contrast to the creamy pasta, creating a more balanced meal.

For a touch of color and added freshness, sprinkle additional chopped parsley or even a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish just before serving. This not only beautifies the plate but also adds brightness to the flavors, tying everything together beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream and nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.