Name: Creamy Shrimp and Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta; 1 pound medium shrimp (thawed and peeled, tails removed if desired); 1 tablespoon butter (adds richness to the sauce); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing); 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a subtle tang); 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour (helps thicken the sauce); 2 teaspoons lemon juice (brightens up the dish); 2 dashes Italian seasoning (for herby flavor); 1 cup chicken broth or stock (provides depth to the sauce); 1 cup heavy cream (creates a luscious texture); Salt and pepper (to taste); Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)

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If you’re on the lookout for a delightful meal that’s both indulgent and comforting, look no further than creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta. This dish combines succulent shrimp with tender mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to your favorite pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta is a dream come true for seafood lovers. The combination of shrimp and mushrooms creates a symphony of flavors, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch. It’s quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for personal touches—whether you want to add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a hint of spice, the possibilities are endless.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this delightful creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 ounces uncooked pasta – Any shape you prefer works wonderfully.
1 pound medium shrimp – Thawed and peeled, tails removed if desired.
1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and mushrooms.
8 ounces cremini mushrooms – Sliced for a meaty texture.
3 cloves garlic – Minced for an aromatic base.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – For a subtle tang.
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
2 teaspoons lemon juice – Brightens up the dish.
2 dashes Italian seasoning – For a hint of herby flavor.
1 cup chicken broth or stock – Provides depth to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
Salt and pepper – To taste.
Parmesan cheese – Grated, for serving.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:

Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
Skillet – To cook the shrimp and mushrooms.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon – For stirring the sauce.
Colander – To drain the pasta.

Build Creamy Shrimp and Mushroom Pasta Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted and hot, add the 1 pound of medium shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the sliced 8 ounces of cremini mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and browned. Add the minced 3 cloves of garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of all-purpose flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Then, add 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Mix in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, and 2 dashes of Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Once the broth is simmering, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to thicken for about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, use some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the comforting flavors and rich textures of this delightful dish!

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have specific dietary needs, consider these swaps:

Pasta – Use gluten-free pasta if you are gluten intolerant.
Heavy cream – Swap with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Chicken broth – Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Shrimp – Substitute with grilled chicken or tofu for a different protein source.

What Could Go Wrong

While making creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta is straightforward, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Thick sauce – If your sauce thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Burnt garlic – Garlic can burn quickly, so watch it closely and add it only when the mushrooms are nearly done.
Underseasoned pasta – Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the flavors shine.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you’re looking to save time during the week, here are a few make-ahead tips:

Prep the ingredients – Slice the mushrooms, mince the garlic, and peel the shrimp a day in advance to save time.
Cook the pasta – You can cook the pasta earlier in the day and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Store the sauce separately – Make the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add the shrimp and pasta.

Your Top Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help them sear nicely and avoid excess moisture in the dish.

What type of pasta works best with this dish?

While any pasta can work, longer shapes like fettuccine or linguine are great for holding onto the creamy sauce. You can also use penne or fusilli for a fun twist!

Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help bring back the creamy texture.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also elevate the dish.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to don your apron and get cooking! Creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta will deliver satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure!