This creamy shrimp pasta is a quick and tasty choice for your weeknight meals! The plump shrimp mingle with tender pasta in a rich sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Honestly, is there anything more yum than pasta? I love making this dish when I need a fast dinner—just cook, toss, and you’re ready to eat. Plus, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine works great here, but you can use any pasta you like! Penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options are good alternatives if that’s your preference.
Shrimp: I prefer large shrimp for their meaty texture. Fresh is best, but frozen shrimp work fine! Just make sure to thaw them first if you go that route.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream like coconut cream. Just know this will slightly change the flavor and richness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds so much flavor! If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free alternative) can be used instead.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth gives depth to the sauce. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, definitely go for vegetable broth!
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Doesn’t Curdle?
A common concern with creamy sauces is curdling. To avoid this, remember to keep the heat low once you add the cream. High heat can break down the cream and make it grainy.
- Always pour the cream slowly into the skillet while stirring to combine it seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- Don’t let the sauce boil after adding the cream; simmer gently to allow it to thicken.
- Make sure your shrimp are already cooked through before returning them to the sauce to ensure they don’t overcook.
Creamy Shrimp Pasta for Easy Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy shrimp pasta dish will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the shrimp and sauce while your pasta boils. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine (or any pasta you prefer) and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with some salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, carefully remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them on a plate to keep warm.
3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
4. Make the Creamy Base:
Now, it’s time to deglaze the pan! Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, using a spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Mix in the Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and if you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes. Cook the mixture gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
6. Combine with Shrimp:
Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce to coat evenly.
7. Toss with Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until combined and heated through. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more broth or a little reserved pasta water.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is mixed nicely, serve the creamy shrimp pasta warm. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish. Enjoy your delicious and easy weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this creamy shrimp pasta dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream, such as coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for added flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the shrimp for a nutritious and colorful boost to the dish!
