This creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta is a dream come true for seafood lovers! It combines juicy shrimp, rich cream, and cheesy goodness, making every bite delicious.
Honestly, I can’t resist the blending of flavors here. It’s like a little party on my plate! Pair it with a side salad, and dinner is ready in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: While fettuccine gives a nice texture, you can swap it for spaghetti or linguine if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish. If shrimp isn’t your thing, consider substituting with scallops, chicken, or even vegetables like mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half works well, or use a non-dairy cream such as almond, soy, or coconut cream if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano makes a good substitute, though it’s a bit saltier.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can easily replace chicken broth for a vegetarian dish. You could use a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor!
How Can You Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is key to this recipe. The goal is to get them tender and juicy, not rubbery. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp; this ensures they sear quickly.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink when done—if they start to curl up tightly, they’re overcooked!
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re opaque to prevent further cooking.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth?
Getting that luscious creamy sauce just right takes a bit of technique:
- Start with sautéing garlic in oil and butter until fragrant, but don’t let it brown. This adds flavor!
- When adding chicken broth, make sure to whisk it with the cream. This helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese and ensure it melts fully for a smooth texture. Low heat is key here!
Enjoy making your creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta perfectly!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For The Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 tbsp butter
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It includes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it boils, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning it should be cooked but still firm to bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic. You want it to be fragrant and golden brown, not too dark!
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Add the Parmesan:
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. If you find the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash more of chicken broth or cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the creamy sauce. It’s all about those flavors coming together!
7. Finish and Garnish:
If you like, mix in the chopped bacon for an extra flavor punch. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve:
Serve your creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy this delightful meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, try simmering it for a few extra minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. You can also add a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it quickly, stirring gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This creamy garlic Parmesan shrimp pasta is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
