Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you’re craving a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in under 40 minutes, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your new go-to! This dish is absolutely dreamy, loaded with juicy, tender shrimp bathed in a silky garlic cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.

The flavor is out-of-this-world: garlicky, slightly buttery, and so rich, with a pop of brightness from fresh parsley and zesty lemon. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet totally impressive—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant date night at home.

What makes this recipe a must-try? It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Inspired by my favorite Italian trattoria, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress—no reservations needed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 35 minutes for effortless weeknight meals
• Luxuriously creamy sauce—no heavy cream required!
• Perfectly balanced garlic flavor without overpowering
• Crowd-pleasing and elegant enough for entertaining
• Easily customizable for your favorite add-ins

Key Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Shrimp

Shrimp are the true star of this dish, adding a sweet, briny flavor and a delicate texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Use large or extra-large shrimp for the best bite. Be sure to peel and devein them for tenderness. Fresh or frozen work well—if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. You can substitute with scallops or even cooked chicken for a twist!

Garlic

Garlic is what gives this pasta its signature aroma and bold flavor. Freshly minced is best for robust taste, but pre-minced will work in a pinch. Don’t skimp—garlic is the heart of the sauce! If you love extra garlicky flavor, add an extra clove or two. Roasted garlic can be used for a sweeter, mellow profile.

Pasta

Fettuccine is classic for creamy sauces, but linguine or spaghetti work great too. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds onto the sauce. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed in the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding depth, saltiness, and a luscious creamy texture. Always grate your own for the best melt and flavor. Pecorino Romano is a strong alternative if you want a sharper bite. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast.

Heavy Cream (or Half-and-Half)

Heavy cream brings richness and body to the sauce, making it silk-smooth and luxurious. Half-and-half is a lighter substitute that still works beautifully. For a lighter, lower-fat version, you can use evaporated milk, but the sauce will be slightly less thick.

Instructions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add the minced garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using) and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the shrimp are evenly distributed. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Finish with chopped fresh parsley.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy immediately for best taste and texture!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the garlic for a bold, spicy kick. If you love heat, a pinch of cayenne works wonders, too!

Lighten It Up

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk to reduce the fat without sacrificing creaminess. You can also try using zoodles (zucchini noodles) or whole wheat pasta for a lighter base.

Gluten-Free Option

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe completely gluten-free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap!

Veggie-Loaded Version

Want to add more veggies? Stir in a handful of baby spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli right before tossing with the pasta. They’ll add color, nutrition, and extra flavor.

Dairy-Free Twist

Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast. The sauce will have a slightly different flavor profile but will still be creamy and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce. For a fresh, crisp complement, pair with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Finish with extra chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of color and zesty brightness.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between. Freezing isn’t recommended as the creamy sauce can separate, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the sauce.

Q: What pasta shape works best with creamy garlic shrimp pasta?
A: Fettuccine and linguine are classic choices, but spaghetti, penne, or even tagliatelle work great. Just pick a shape that holds onto the creamy sauce.

Q: How can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the sauce and shrimp a few hours ahead and store them separately. When ready to eat, cook the pasta fresh and toss everything together for the best texture.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is proof that decadent, restaurant-quality meals can be made at home with ease! I hope you give this recipe a try—your taste buds (and dinner guests) will thank you. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below, and don’t forget to leave a rating!