Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; Salt, for pasta water; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty

I absolutely love making Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce for a quick weeknight dinner. The delicate shrimp combined with a creamy garlic sauce makes for a divine and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. Every time I whip this up, the rich aromas fill my kitchen, and I can’t wait to dig in. It’s a hearty meal that impresses both family and guests alike, without taking much time to put together. Trust me, once you try this meal, it might just become a favorite in your household too!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:33:35.984Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of a cozy Italian bistro in my own kitchen. The secret lies in the balance of the garlic and cream; it creates a luxurious coating for the pasta that is neither too heavy nor too light. I discovered that allowing the garlic to sauté until golden enhances its flavor, adding depth to the sauce.

To elevate the dish even further, I learned to deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the shrimp. This step adds an incredible layer of flavor to the sauce, making it unforgettable. I serve this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, which gives a nice contrast and brightness to the rich cream sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp infused with a rich garlic flavor
Creamy texture that beautifully clings to every strand of pasta
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this dish, I recommend using large, wild-caught shrimp whenever possible. They have a firmer texture and a more robust flavor compared to farmed ones. Look for shrimp that are translucent and have a clean, ocean-like scent. If frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve an even cook and avoid a rubbery texture.

It's essential to properly devein the shrimp to ensure both aesthetics and taste. The dark line along the back can be gritty and unappetizing. To devein, simply slice along the back with a sharp knife and remove the vein with a toothpick or the edge of your knife. This quick step can greatly enhance your dining experience.

Perfecting the Garlic Cream Sauce

The key to a luscious garlic cream sauce is to sauté the garlic gently and ensure it doesn’t brown. Browning can introduce bitterness, ruining the sauce's delicate balance. I like to cook the garlic just until it becomes fragrant and translucent, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes over medium heat. This sweetens the garlic and deepens its flavor without the risk of burning.

For the cream, I suggest using heavy cream for its richness, which provides a luxurious mouthfeel that coats the pasta beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half can work in a pinch, but it won't yield the same creamy texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as lighter creams might require a bit less simmering to thicken.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Once the pasta is mixed with the sauce, I recommend letting it sit for a minute in the skillet before plating. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce a bit more, resulting in a richer dish. To elevate your presentation, consider twisting the pasta onto the plate using a fork for a beautifully swirled mound.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread on the side. The acidity of the salad cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, providing a refreshing contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the finished dish for a flavorful kick.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the best results.

For the Pasta

12 oz spaghetti
Salt, for pasta water

For the Garlic Cream Sauce

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for optimal flavor and texture.

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Toss the spaghetti into the sauce ensuring it is well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious shrimp pasta with a side of garlic bread.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a quicker weeknight dinner, consider prepping the shrimp and garlic cream sauce in advance. The sauce can be made up to a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove over low heat before adding the cooked shrimp and pasta, ensuring not to let it boil, as this can separate the cream.

You can also cook the pasta a few hours ahead and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. If you do this, be aware that the pasta will absorb some sauce as it sits. So, be prepared to add a bit more reserved pasta water when mixing everything together to achieve that creamy texture.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately. The pasta tends to absorb the sauce, making it dry when stored together. In an airtight container, the sauce can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring back its glossy texture and loosen the sauce.

When reheating the pasta, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little water as needed. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and helps retain its texture. For extra flavor, consider topping it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is ideal, but you can use linguine or fettuccine as alternatives.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.