Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together succulent shrimp, a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta for a restaurant-quality meal at home. The delicate flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese perfectly complement the shrimp, while the creaminess of the sauce brings it all together. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests at a special gathering. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a seafood enthusiast, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings with its creamy, garlicky goodness and juicy shrimp. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering dish in just a few easy steps!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later, and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, add 1 tbsp of butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Pour in the ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 4: Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, slowly stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and coats the back of a spoon. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Add the cooked shrimp as well, and gently toss everything together. Allow the shrimp and pasta to heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the creamy shrimp pasta to a large serving dish or divide among individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, while the dish is still warm and the sauce is creamy.

Cooking Note:

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the cream and adds a refreshing zing.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a mixture of cream and milk.
• If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Serving Suggestions:

• This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the pasta.
• Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
• For a complete seafood feast, consider serving this dish alongside grilled scallops or a light seafood appetizer like shrimp cocktail.

Tips:

• For the best texture, use fresh shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor. Grating your own Parmesan from a block will give a better result than using pre-grated cheese.
• If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to thin it out.
• You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 520 kcal per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Sodium: 780 mg per serving

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! This dish works well with many pasta varieties like penne, linguine, or even pappardelle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Q: Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
A: Yes, you can swap out shrimp for chicken breast, salmon, or even scallops. Cook the protein separately and add it to the pasta in the same way.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best to prepare this dish fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and shrimp, then reheat the sauce.

Q: What can I add for more vegetables?
A: You can add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra color and nutrients. Simply sauté them with the garlic or stir them into the sauce before combining with the pasta.

Conclusion:

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious recipe that brings together rich flavors and a creamy texture in just 25 minutes. With succulent shrimp and a garlic-infused Parmesan sauce, this dish will become a go-to for both weeknight meals and special occasions. It’s easy to make yet tastes indulgent, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting pasta dish that the whole family will love. Enjoy this creamy pasta with shrimp, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch!

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