Why You’ll Love This Recipe

25-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and indulgent dish that brings together tender shrimp, a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all ready in under half an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss. Each bite delivers comfort and flavor in a creamy, garlicky embrace.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined)olive oilbuttergarlic (minced)heavy creamparmesan cheese (grated)chicken or vegetable brothsaltblack pepperred pepper flakes (optional)pasta (like fettuccine or linguine)fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.

Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the grated parmesan until the sauce thickens slightly.

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta.

Toss everything together to coat well. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Season with red pepper flakes if using, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Swap shrimp for scallops or cooked chicken for a different protein option.

Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.Freeze is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mild by default, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

What pasta shape works best?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well, but any pasta will do.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low to medium heat and don’t let the cream boil too vigorously.

Can I add lemon?

Yes, a squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and pairs well with shrimp.

Should I remove the tails from the shrimp?

That’s optional—tails add presentation but can be removed for easier eating.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger pan and adjust cooking times slightly.

Does this taste good cold?

It’s best served hot, but can be eaten cold as a pasta salad variation.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to warm through to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

25-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a satisfying, elegant meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With its silky garlic-parmesan sauce and succulent shrimp, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite when time is short but you still crave something truly delicious.