Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about Shrimp Pasta. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Versatile : Customize with different sauces, spices, or add-ins to suit your taste.
- Rich and Creamy : The sauce clings to every strand of pasta, delivering flavor in every bite.
- Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love the tender shrimp and flavorful sauce.
- One-Pan Friendly : Minimal cleanup makes this recipe perfect for lazy cooks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this dish lies in its simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Shrimp Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional, substitute with chicken broth if preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Spinach or kale
- Lemon zest and juice (for brightness)
- Crispy pancetta or bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up this creamy, flavorful pasta? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the shrimp pasta to serving plates or a large bowl.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of Shrimp Pasta lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. The tender shrimp provides a delicate sweetness, while the creamy sauce adds richness and depth. Garlic and Parmesan create a savory base, and optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes or spinach bring freshness and color. Together, these elements create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent—a true crowd-pleaser.
