Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce

Name: Shrimp Pasta With Garlic Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine pasta; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup white wine; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce! It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress my family and friends, all while being surprisingly easy to prepare. The buttery garlic sauce combined with succulent shrimp and al dente pasta creates a delicious harmony of flavors that I can’t resist. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings an elevated touch to the table. Join me in exploring this delightful seafood pasta that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:37:34.741Z

When I first attempted this Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of garlic, cream, and white wine creates a sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and shrimp. I discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end really brightens the entire dish, elevating the flavors even more.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh shrimp whenever possible, as their sweetness makes a significant difference. If you can, purchase shrimp that’s already peeled and deveined to save some prep time. I guarantee you’ll want to prepare this dish again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that envelops every bite
Perfectly cooked shrimp that add a burst of flavor
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

Selecting the Right Shrimp

When preparing Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce, the choice of shrimp significantly influences the dish's outcome. Opt for large shrimp, such as U-15 or 16-20 count, as they provide a satisfying bite and hold up well during cooking. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you must use frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess water from releasing into your sauce, which can dilute its flavor.

Always peel and devein the shrimp before cooking – this not only enhances the presentation but also promises a cleaner taste. If time is short, consider buying pre-peeled shrimp; however, paying close attention to the quality is vital since they should retain a firm texture and a pleasant oceanic aroma.

Perfecting Your Garlic Cream Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is the heart of this dish, marrying simplicity with rich flavors. To achieve a silky texture, it's crucial to allow the cream to reduce adequately; simmer for 3-4 minutes after adding it to the wine. The goal is to achieve a glossy finish that clings to the pasta without being too runny. A gentle simmer at medium heat will ensure it thickens properly without burning.

Consider bounding the flavors by using freshly minced garlic instead of pre-minced options, as this results in a more robust garlic flavor. Balancing the cream with fresh lemon juice ties the dish together, cutting through the richness with a zesty brightness. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end; an additional pinch of salt or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the overall depth.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup white wine
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add in the heavy cream and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until thickened slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but be cautious: shrimp tends to become rubbery if reheated improperly. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or additional cream over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps prevent the pasta from drying out and ensures a deliciously creamy consistency.

If you anticipate leftovers, consider undercooking the shrimp slightly when first preparing the pasta. This allows them to retain more moisture during storage and helps maintain their tenderness when reheated. Additionally, the sauce might thicken in the fridge; adding a little cream when reheating can restore its original creamy texture.

Making It Your Own

One of the beautiful aspects of Shrimp Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce is its versatility. Feel free to experiment by adding seasonal vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus to boost nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them quickly in the same pan before adding the cream for a colorful and wholesome variation.

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, such as cashew cream, to still achieve a wonderfully creamy texture but with fewer calories. Additionally, you can easily swap fettuccine for whole grain or gluten-free pasta variants without compromising the dish's integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is ideal, but you can also use linguine or spaghetti.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and combine it with cooked pasta just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A light salad and a side of garlic bread make great accompaniments.