Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta combines perfectly sautéed shrimp with tender fettuccine in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. It's a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.

🍽 Yield

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or linguine

• 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream

• 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

• Freshly cracked black pepper

• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the fettuccine until al dente, according to the package directions.

3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2 – Cook the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

2. Season with:

   • Paprika

   • Garlic powder

   • Salt

   • Black pepper

3. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through.

5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3 – Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Stir in:

   • Parmesan cheese

   • Italian seasoning

   • Red pepper flakes (if using)

5. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 4 – Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce.

2. Toss gently until evenly coated.

3. Return the shrimp to the skillet.

4. Toss everything together and heat for 1–2 minutes.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5 – Serve

1. Divide the pasta among serving bowls.

2. Top with the shrimp.

3. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley and freshly cracked black pepper.

5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

Chef's Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.

• Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they become rubbery quickly.

• Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for extra brightness.

• Warm serving bowls before plating to keep the pasta hot longer.

Delicious Variations

Cajun Shrimp Alfredo

• Add 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning.

• Garnish with green onions.

Spinach Shrimp Pasta

• Stir in 2 cups baby spinach until wilted.

• Finish with extra Parmesan.

Mushroom Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Sauté 8 oz sliced mushrooms before adding the garlic.

• Add fresh thyme for extra flavor.

Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta

• Stir in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

• Finish with fresh basil leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Garlic bread

• Caesar salad

• Roasted asparagus

• Steamed broccoli

• White wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)

• Sparkling water with lemon

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream.

• Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 690

• Protein: 38 g

• Fat: 35 g

• Carbohydrates: 55 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 4 g

• Sodium: 760 mg

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Tender shrimp, silky garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in an elegant dish that's ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.