Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a quick and indulgent weeknight dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp in a rich, creamy garlic sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. I find that the secret lies in using fresh garlic and a splash of white wine, which elevates the dish and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. This is one of those meals that feels fancy but can be ready in just 30 minutes, allowing you to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:07:18.988Z

Creating this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is one of my favorite kitchen experiences! I remember the first time I successfully balanced the flavors of garlic and cream; it was a total game-changer. The sweetness of the shrimp, combined with the garlic's sharpness, creates a symphony on the palate.

One tip I learned along the way is to use high-quality pasta; it truly makes a difference in the final dish. When you add the reserved pasta water to the sauce, it helps achieve a silky texture that clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A luscious creamy sauce that envelops tender shrimp
Quick and easy for a weeknight meal that feels special
Fresh flavors that are elevated with a splash of white wine

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh garlic is crucial for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Fresh garlic, minced just before cooking, offers a pungent aroma and a flavor that dried garlic simply cannot replicate. If needed, you can substitute with garlic powder, but remember that it will alter the dish's overall flavor profile. Aim for a strong, fragrant base by sautéing the garlic until it's lightly golden—this will prevent any bitterness and enhance the dish's complexity.

When it comes to shrimp, the quality matters. Opt for wild-caught shrimp if available, as they tend to have a firmer texture and a sweeter taste compared to farmed varieties. Additionally, ensure your shrimp are well-cleaned and deveined to save you time in the kitchen. I recommend purchasing shrimp that are still frozen, as they often retain their freshness better. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

Perfecting the Sauce

To achieve a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, the technique of reducing the white wine is essential. This concentration process enhances the dish's flavor without overwhelming it. Letting the wine reduce for about three minutes on medium-high heat allows the alcohol to evaporate while leaving behind a rich depth. You’ll know it's ready when it starts to coat the back of a spoon.

Incorporating heavy cream requires a careful balance; if you add it too quickly or at too high a heat, it can curdle. Once you've added the cream to your sauce, lower the heat to medium-low and stir gently to bring everything together. If your sauce appears too thick, the reserved pasta water is perfect for adjusting its consistency. Just a few tablespoons can transform a clumpy sauce into a silky, luscious coat over the shrimp and pasta.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you are ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in white wine and allow to reduce by half, about 3 minutes.

Combine Everything

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add the reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Finish the Dish

Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp in the sauce, mixing well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

To elevate this dish even further, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed spinach for extra flavor and texture.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy sauce may thicken upon cooling, but don't worry; a splash of milk or additional cream can refresh the sauce during reheating. I recommend using a skillet to reheat over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Freezing is an option, but I advise caution due to the dairy content. If you must freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then warm it gently in a skillet, adding a little cream or pasta water to restore its creamy texture.

Dietary Modifications

For a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. This will change the flavor slightly, adding a hint of sweetness from the coconut, but results in a creamy and delicious sauce. Just keep in mind that the texture might be less rich than the original recipe.

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free spaghetti or fettuccine. There are many excellent gluten-free options available that mimic traditional pasta's texture quite well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes cook faster or slower than its wheat counterparts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a non-alcoholic substitute.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when you're ready to add the pasta and shrimp.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and fettuccine are both excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite type!