Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe recreates the beloved shrimp pasta dish often found on Shells Restaurant menus, bringing that delicious, creamy taste right into your own kitchen. It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends! This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and easy recipes combined. It's a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp and Wine (or Broth)
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 cook for another minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. If substituting with chicken broth, add it at this stage.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips for Homemade Cooking Success:
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality Parmesan cheese.
- Don't overcook the shrimp, or they will become tough.
- If you don't have white wine, chicken broth makes a great substitute.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for extra brightness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a more complete meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes along with the heavy cream for a richer, tomato-based sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 Protein: 30-40g Fat: 25-35g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create delicious dishes at home. Enjoy your restaurant-quality shrimp pasta! It’s a great example of how delicious and healthy meals can be easy and quick to prepare. Remember to share this easy recipe with your friends and family – it’s sure to become a new favorite!