Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta
If you’re looking for a dish that is both elegant and comforting, look no further than Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta. This delightful recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked linguine. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that will make your taste buds sing!
Why This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta Stands Out
What truly sets this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta apart is the combination of fresh ingredients and the balance between creamy and savory flavors. The shrimp are seared to perfection, offering a juicy bite that pairs seamlessly with the smooth, garlicky sauce. With the addition of Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, this dish is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Italy to your home. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy evenings when you still want to impress.
Shopping List
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cooked and drained linguine noodles
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large skillet – for sautéing the shrimp and creating the sauce.
- Pot – to cook the linguine noodles.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
- Serving dish – to beautifully present your creamy pasta creation.
From Start to Finish: Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Linguine
Start by cooking the linguine noodles according to the package instructions. Make sure to season the boiling water with salt for extra flavor. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
To the simmering sauce, add the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Pasta
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained linguine noodles. Toss everything together, ensuring each noodle is coated with that luscious creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is combined, serve the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish.
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
- For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Swap out the shrimp for grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for a different protein option.
- Use whole wheat linguine for added fiber and nutrients.
- Incorporate more veggies, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for added flavor and nutrition.
If You’re Curious
Did you know that shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits? They are low in calories while being rich in protein, making them a great choice for maintaining a healthy diet. Additionally, shrimp contain important nutrients such as vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. Combined with the calcium from Parmesan cheese, this dish can be a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer not to use chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great alternative that will still provide a rich flavor to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the shrimp and pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it completely vegetarian.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked linguine come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction on every plate. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cooking the linguine noodles according to the package instructions. Make sure to season the boiling water with salt for extra flavor. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- To the simmering sauce, add the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained linguine noodles. Toss everything together, ensuring each noodle is coated with that luscious creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Once everything is combined, serve the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Swap out the shrimp for grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for a different protein option.
- Use whole wheat linguine for added fiber and nutrients.
