Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe – How to Cook Shrimp and Pasta
The aroma of sizzling shrimp and garlic wafting from the kitchen is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, and that’s exactly what this Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe – How to Cook Shrimp and Pasta brings to my family.
I still remember the first time I made this dish on a crisp autumn night, and my husband took one bite and declared it a ‘keeper’ – it’s been a staple in our household ever since, especially with the addition of fresh parsley from our garden.
It wasn’t until I shared this recipe with friends at a dinner party that I realized just how easy it was to make and how quickly it became a cherished family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe – How to Cook Shrimp and Pasta
- The combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich creamy sauce is a match made in heaven.
- The flavor profile is a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and a hint of tanginess from the parmesan cheese.
- This recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- The foolproof method ensures that your shrimp are cooked to perfection every time.
- This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
- Fresh parsley, chopped

The star ingredients of this dish are undoubtedly the succulent shrimp and the rich, velvety sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe – How to Cook Shrimp and Pasta
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should be pink and slightly firm to the touch.
- A common mistake is to add too much pasta water, which can make the sauce too thin; instead, add it gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add some grated nutmeg to the sauce.
- The doneness cue for the pasta is when it’s al dente, still slightly firm to the bite.
- You can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day, then reheat it with a splash of cream.
Variations and Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, swap out the traditional pasta for a gluten-free alternative. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or scallops for a different protein option. Add some red pepper flakes for a bold, spicy twist.

How to Store and Reheat
This dish will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, simply add a splash of cream and heat it over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months and reheat it from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel before using.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, add a little more cream or pasta water. You can also cook the sauce for a shorter time to achieve a lighter consistency.
Can I serve this dish at room temperature?
While this dish is best served warm, you can serve it at room temperature if you prefer. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
I hope you enjoy this Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe – How to Cook Shrimp and Pasta as much as my family does! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if you’d like any variations on the recipe.
Creamy Shrimp Pasta
🧂 Ingredients
👩🍳 Instructions
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1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
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2In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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3Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
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4Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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5In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
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6Add the Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
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7Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to combine with the creamy sauce.
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8Season the shrimp and sauce with salt, pepper, and basil.
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9Serve the shrimp and sauce over the cooked pasta, tossing to combine and adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
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10Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

