This creamy garlic parmesan shrimp pasta is just what you need for a cozy dinner. With juicy shrimp, rich cream, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together quickly.
Trust me, every bite is like a warm hug on your plate! I love pairing it with a side salad, but let’s be honest, the pasta could easily steal the whole meal. 🍤🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional, you can swap it for spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta. I often use whole wheat pasta for a slightly nuttier taste and added fiber.
Shrimp: Large shrimp bring the best texture. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work just as well. Just make sure they are fully defrosted before cooking!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking to cut calories, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, though flavors will change slightly. I personally love the richness heavy cream provides.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and taste brighter than pre-grated cheese. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option.
Spinach: For a more colorful dish, try adding kale or arugula. You could also skip leafy greens entirely if you prefer.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp well is key to this dish. Overcooked shrimp can be rubbery. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil. It’s best to have the oil shimmering before adding shrimp.
- Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper before cooking, that enhances their flavor.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Remove them from heat immediately!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Greens:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
To Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes in total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and another 10 for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive date night dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add your fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want to keep it slightly firm since it’ll cook more in the sauce.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your shrimp with salt and pepper for flavor. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Don’t worry if they look a little undercooked; they’ll continue to cook a bit once added back to the pasta.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, turn down the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic, sautéing for around 1 minute until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and the sauce thickens—this should take around 3-5 minutes.
4. Time for the Flavors:
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat! Adjust the sauce with more salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
5. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until it wilts beautifully in the sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything gently to ensure the pasta and shrimp are coated in that delicious creamy sauce. Allow it to cook for another minute to warm through.
7. Serve It Up:
Once everything is combined, take it off the heat. You can garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top for an elegant touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk with a touch of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream, though it will impart a coconut flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic to ensure they’re tender and blend well with the sauce.
