Shrimp Pasta – A Creamy, Flavorful Dish with Tender Shrimp and a Rich Sauce
This Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The garlic-infused olive oil, chicken broth, and Parmesan sauce give it incredible flavor and richness.
Why You’ll Love Shrimp Pasta:
Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying. The succulent shrimp and rich Parmesan cream sauce are perfectly complemented by the al dente pasta. It’s a dish everyone will love, and it comes together quickly!
- Creamy and Rich: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a luxurious, smooth sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and comforting.
- Savory and Flavorful: Garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley give this dish layers of flavor, while the shrimp adds a satisfying protein boost.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Shrimp: A great source of lean protein and low in calories, shrimp are rich in nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium.
- Heavy Cream & Parmesan: Provide a rich, satisfying base for the sauce, making it indulgent yet flavorful in moderation.
- Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that enhances the flavors while adding richness to the sauce.
Ingredients for Shrimp Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta (Time: 8-10 minutes)
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
2. Cook the Shrimp (Time: 3-4 minutes)
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic (Time: 1 minute)
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Make the Sauce (Time: 3-4 minutes)
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Parmesan (Time: 1 minute)
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp (Time: 2 minutes)
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
7. Garnish and Serve (Time: 2 minutes)
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy Shrimp Pasta!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving (varies based on pasta type and portion size)
Tips for the Best Shrimp Pasta:
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to watch them closely to avoid overcooking. They should be pink and opaque.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water to thin it out and help it coat the pasta.
- Add Extra Flavor: For a richer flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of white wine to the sauce.
FAQ About Shrimp Pasta:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.
Q: Can I make this dish without heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: If you want a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Final Thoughts:
Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. The tender shrimp, rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a crowd-pleasing meal for any occasion. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
If you loved this Shrimp Pasta, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Leave a comment below and let us know how your dish turned out. Enjoy!
