Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Classics

I love making Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce because it’s a quick, yet indulgent dish that brings comfort and elegance to the table. The creamy sauce melds perfectly with the succulence of the shrimp and the al dente pasta. I can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is incredibly satisfying and has quickly become a favorite in my household.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:49:34.810Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce, I experimented with fresh herbs and spices to add depth. The garlic aroma fills the kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. I realized that letting the garlic sauté until golden creates a richer flavor in the sauce.

One of my favorite tricks is to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. It’s simple, yet effective, to achieve that perfect creaminess without making it too heavy. This dish has become my go-to for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly
Plump shrimp that cook quickly and taste amazing
A dish that feels fancy but is deceptively simple to make

Perfecting Your Garlic Cream Sauce

The key to a luxurious garlic cream sauce lies in the timing and technique of cooking the garlic. Be sure not to overcook it, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste to your dish. When sautéing, keep an eye on it and cook until just fragrant—about one minute—before adding the cream. This ensures the garlic remains sweet and aromatic, perfectly complementing the rich cream and Parmesan cheese.

To achieve the ideal consistency for your sauce, remember that the addition of Parmesan cheese plays a crucial role. As it melts into the cream, it adds both flavor and thickness. If your sauce becomes too thick, the reserved pasta water is an excellent way to loosen it without compromising flavor. Adding a little at a time allows you to control the final texture, helping you achieve a silky-smooth finish.

Getting the Shrimp Just Right

Cooking shrimp is quick and requires careful attention. When sautéing, the shrimp should turn a bright pink and opaque, signaling they are done. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat. To avoid overcooking, which makes them rubbery, I recommend removing them from the pan as soon as they are cooked through. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture and splattering oil.

For a flavor twist, consider marinating the shrimp in lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for about 15 minutes before cooking. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a zingy brightness to the dish. If you're looking for substitutions, scallops or even chicken can be used instead of shrimp, but cooking times will vary. Just remember, the cooking method remains the same—sear for that beautiful golden crust.

Serving and Storage Tips

To serve your Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce in style, I recommend plating it immediately after cooking, as the pasta will absorb your luscious sauce if left to sit. Garnishing with freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or pasta water in a skillet over low heat to revive the sauce's creaminess. Avoid the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp and make the pasta mushy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but knowing how to store and reheat it properly ensures you’ll enjoy it again!

Ingredients

For this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

A simple yet flavorful combination that brings this dish together.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Remove and set aside.

Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy this creamy masterpiece!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. While this will make the sauce less rich, it still contributes a creamy texture. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will shift slightly, bringing in a hint of sweetness from coconut milk.

In place of fettuccine, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as linguine or even whole grain options for added nutrition. Alternative spaghetti or even gluten-free pasta can work well, although cooking time may vary. This flexibility allows the dish to fit various dietary needs without sacrificing too much on flavor.

Make-Ahead Strategies

If you're planning to make this dish in advance, consider preparing the shrimp and sauce separately, and then combine them right before serving. Cook the shrimp just until they are opaque, then store them in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their texture and prevents overcooking when combined with the sauce later. Prepare the sauce with the garlic and cream, and store it separately as well.

When you are ready to serve, quickly reheat the sauce on low heat and add the reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Boil the pasta fresh to maintain the best texture. This strategy provides the convenience of prepping ahead while ensuring your meal is as fresh and delightful as if it were made right at that moment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta will work well.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

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

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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