Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta​

• Author: Beth
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredient​

For the Pasta:​

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 1/2 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Shrimp:​

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Cream Sauce:​

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:​

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions​

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
   • Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
   • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve:
   • Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.

Notes​

• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.

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