Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy cooking time? This creamy garlic shrimp and pasta recipe is your answer! It's a delightful blend of succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce that will quickly become a weeknight staple. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a delicious and healthy meal. Get ready to elevate your pasta night!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of spice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; low to medium heat is key.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp and Wine (Optional)
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off. This step adds depth of flavor, but chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the creamy garlic shrimp sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier dish: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your meal with sauteed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Add these with the garlic in step 2.
- Use different pasta: Feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne.
- Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the creamy sauce beautifully. Add it at the end with the parsley.
- Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This creamy garlic shrimp and pasta recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cooking!