Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Name: Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: One Pot Recipes

I absolutely love making Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta for a quick yet impressive meal at home. The combination of shrimp sautéed in garlic and finished with a touch of cream and parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory sauce that clings perfectly to pasta. It’s one of those dishes that impresses guests and satisfies even the hungriest of appetites. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this pasta dish never fails to elicit compliments and empty plates.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:42:19.258Z

When I first tried Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such a delicious dish. The burst of garlic flavor paired with the creaminess of the parmesan was a game changer for weeknight dinners. I learned that marinating the shrimp in garlic and olive oil beforehand not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they stay tender while cooking.

One of my favorite tricks is to reserve a bit of pasta cooking water before draining it. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce's consistency, ensuring that every strand of pasta is perfectly coated and not too dry. It’s little details like this that elevate a good meal to something truly special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp coated in a rich and creamy sauce
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Comforting flavors that please both seafood lovers and pasta aficionados

      

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of pasta in Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta plays a pivotal role in the overall dish. Linguine or spaghetti is ideal due to their ability to catch the creamy sauce. The flat surface of linguine holds onto the sauce beautifully. If you're looking for alternatives, fettuccine or even whole wheat pasta can work. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you select to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Shrimp is the star of this dish, so sourcing fresh, high-quality shrimp will make a noticeable difference. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild, ocean-like smell. If fresh is unavailable, frozen shrimp can be a great substitute—just ensure they’re thawed completely and patted dry to maintain the sauce's creaminess.

Techniques to Enhance Flavor

Sautéing the garlic until it’s fragrant is critical; aim for about one minute, just until it becomes golden and not burnt. Burned garlic can produce a bitter taste that will overpower the dish. Incorporating red pepper flakes at this point not only adds heat but also helps release their oils, enhancing the dish's overall flavor profile.

When making the cream sauce, be careful not to bring it to a full boil after adding the heavy cream. Keep the heat low, which allows the sauce to thicken gently without curdling. A simmer over medium-low heat should be sufficient to achieve the desired creaminess, and whisking in the parmesan cheese gradually will ensure a smooth, glossy sauce.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

For the Pasta

8 oz linguine or spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Steps to Make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and are just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually whisk in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

Serve and Enjoy

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cherry tomatoes or spinach into the dish. They not only add color but also elevate the nutritional value.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare the dish ahead of time, you can cook the pasta and sauté the shrimp separately. Keep the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to a day, and combine them with the cream sauce just before serving. This will help preserve the freshness of the shrimp while allowing you to enjoy the creamy sauce right away.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional cream to help revive the sauce's creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp and change the sauce consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. The crispness of a salad can balance the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing component. You could also sprinkle additional parmesan or chili flakes on top right before serving for an extra punch of flavor.

For variations, feel free to add vegetables—like spinach or cherry tomatoes—during the last few minutes of cooking the shrimp. This adds both color and nutrition to your meal and keeps the dish exciting and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just ensure you thaw them properly before cooking, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free, and you're all set.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a little extra cream or pasta water to rehydrate.