Looking for a quick and easy dinner? This Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe has you covered! With just a few fresh ingredients, like shrimp, fettuccine, and garlic, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Perfect for busy nights or impressive date nights, this dish combines creamy goodness with bold flavors. Let’s dive in and get cooking—you’ll impress your taste buds in just minutes!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
Seasoning and Garnish
– Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes
– Fresh parsley, chopped
This dish is all about fresh and simple ingredients. The fettuccine pasta forms a great base. The shrimp adds protein and a lovely texture. Garlic gives the dish its bold flavor.
In terms of creaminess, the heavy cream does wonders. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty kick. Olive oil and butter create a rich sauce that binds all the flavors.
Don’t forget the seasoning. Salt and pepper elevate the taste. Red pepper flakes add heat if you like spice. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, making it look pretty too.
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the process quick and easy. With everything ready, you will enjoy this meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To start, fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. This step helps flavor the pasta. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 oz of fettuccine. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm but cooked through. After cooking, reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the fettuccine. Set the drained pasta aside for later.
Preparing the Shrimp
Next, grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once the butter melts, add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it simmers, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it well until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. This step makes the sauce smooth and perfect for coating the pasta.
Combining and Serving
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked fettuccine and the shrimp back into the skillet. Toss all the ingredients together until the pasta and shrimp are well coated in the creamy garlic sauce. For a fresh touch, chop some parsley and sprinkle it over the top before serving. This not only adds color but also a burst of flavor. Divide the pasta among plates, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Pasta
To cook pasta al dente, boil salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook until tender but firm. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy. After cooking, reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Use a measuring cup to scoop it out before draining the pasta. This water adds flavor and helps the sauce stick.
Enhancing Flavors
You can add extra spices to boost flavor. Try thyme or basil for a fresh taste. For heat, red pepper flakes work great. To balance the creaminess, start with less cream. Add it slowly to find your perfect texture. If the sauce feels too rich, a splash of pasta water lightens it up.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad cuts through the creaminess. For presentation, use a large bowl or plate. Twirl the pasta for a beautiful look. Top with fresh parsley for color and taste. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan also adds a nice touch.
Variations
Seafood Variations
You can easily change up the seafood in this dish. Adding scallops or crab adds a sweet touch. Just cook them the same way as the shrimp. If you want a twist, try using shrimp alternatives like langoustines or even fish. These options still give you that great seafood flavor.
Vegetarian Options
If you prefer a meat-free meal, there are tasty swaps. Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty texture. You can also make a creamy garlic pasta without any seafood. Use the same creamy sauce, but mix in your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying.
Sauce Variations
To deepen the flavor of the sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine. This gives the sauce a nice zing. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach. This adds color and extra nutrients. Adjust the sauce to your liking for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store creamy garlic shrimp pasta, let it cool first. Place the pasta in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. It can last for about two months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, the best method is to use the stove. Add a splash of water or cream to a skillet. Heat it gently on medium-low. This keeps the pasta creamy and soft. Avoid using the microwave as it can dry out the dish. If the sauce thickens after storage, just add a bit more reserved pasta water or cream. This helps restore its smooth texture.
FAQs
How long does it take to make creamy garlic shrimp pasta?
This creamy garlic shrimp pasta comes together fast. You need only 5 minutes to prep. Cooking takes about 10 minutes. In total, it takes just 15 minutes to make.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative. Both options keep the creamy texture and flavor.
What can I serve with shrimp pasta?
Many sides go well with shrimp pasta. A fresh garden salad adds crunch. Garlic bread is great for soaking up sauce. Roasted vegetables also make a nice side.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
You can use frozen shrimp! Just thaw them first. Place shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes. Cook them as you would fresh shrimp. They will taste just as good!
In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious creamy garlic shrimp pasta. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to enhance flavors and explore variations. Plus, we shared storage and reheating advice.
Cooking this dish can be fun and simple. With practice, you can impress anyone with your skills. Enjoy your next meal!
