Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.Quick Answer
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta combines succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy sauce clinging to pasta for a comforting dish perfect for holiday gatherings.When the crisp air of early winter settles in New York City, and the holiday vibe begins to swirl around me, I often find myself reminiscing about comfort food that feels both luxurious and soul-warming. One dish that never fails to transport me is Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta. The rich, creamy sauce clings beautifully to the tender pasta, while succulent shrimp add a touch of elegance, making it a perfect choice for dinner parties during Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. I've spent some time testing this recipe, ensuring that every single bite bursts with flavor and comfort.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, delivering a comforting and luxurious experience.
- Succulent shrimp add elegance and flavor, making this dish ideal for special occasions and gatherings.
- Quick and easy to prepare, it can be ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile ingredients allow for customization, such as adding vegetables or swapping for lighter options.
- Leftovers maintain their deliciousness, making it a great choice for meal prep.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
Pasta
- 8 ounces of fettuccine or spaghetti
Shrimp
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is simple and comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or spaghetti and cook as specified on the package until al dente. Don't forget to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. As it sizzles, a nutty aroma will fill your kitchen! After about 30 seconds, add the shrimp, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the shrimp are beautifully cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. The mixture should thicken slowly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes glossy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing it well with the shrimp and creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the remaining butter for extra richness. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp. They should be pink and firm but not rubbery.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is your friend! It helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Let the cream heat up before adding cheese to prevent clumping and ensure a silky sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor-grating it fresh makes a significant difference.
- Try swapping half of the heavy cream for half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- If desired, incorporate vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for added color and nutrition.
Variations
- Substitute fettuccine with penne or linguine for different pasta options.
- Use shrimp alternatives like scallops or chicken for different protein choices.
- Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate lemon zest for a fresh, zesty flavor.
How to Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
- Serve with garlic bread for an indulgent meal experience.
- Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to combine with pasta and shrimp.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce's lusciousness.
- Freezing: It's best to avoid freezing this dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through multiple rounds of testing, I discovered that the balance of garlic and cream is key to an unforgettable sauce. Plus, the experience of cooking this dish is as delightful as enjoying it with others around the dinner table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~600 calories · 28g protein · 65g carbs · 30g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or spaghetti and cook as specified on the package until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. After about 30 seconds, add the shrimp, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes glossy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing it well with the shrimp and creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it until desired consistency. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the remaining butter for extra richness. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Fettuccine and spaghetti are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and add the pasta and shrimp just before serving.
4. How can I make this dish lighter?
Substituting half of the heavy cream with half-and-half can reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
5. What can I add for extra flavor?
Incorporating vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition.
