Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Recipe Tested & Approved by Mia Hartwell
Every recipe is developed, cooked, and tested by Mia in a real home kitchen using everyday ingredients to ensure reliable, repeatable results.
Juicy shrimp and pasta in a silky garlic parmesan cream sauce. A quick, comforting dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in about 25 minutes.
By Mia HartwellUpdated September 9, 2025
Developed using tested cooking methods — cook to the temperatures given and adjust times to your equipment.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Silky garlic parmesan shrimp pasta
- 36g of protein per serving
- Feels indulgent, ready in 25 minutes
- A from-scratch cream sauce
Creamy Shrimp Pasta
28 min totalServes 4
Nutrition (per serving)
Values are estimates. See our disclaimer for details.
- Calories
- 600kcal
- Protein
- 36g
- Carbs
- 56g
- Fat
- 25g
- Fiber
- 3g
- Sugar
- 4g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- 2
Pat the shrimp dry and season. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and cook the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until pink. Remove.
- 3
Lower the heat to medium, melt the butter, and cook the garlic 1 minute.
- 4
Pour in the cream and broth and simmer 3 minutes, then whisk in the Parmesan until smooth. Stir in the spinach until wilted if using.
- 5
Add the pasta and shrimp, tossing and loosening with pasta water until silky.
- 6
Season to taste, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Do not overcook the shrimp. Sear them first, then add them back at the end.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and a gentle simmer to keep the sauce smooth.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the rich sauce into a clinging coating.
- Add spinach for color and a hidden serving of greens.
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How to Cook Creamy Shrimp Pasta
New to this dish? Follow along with the detailed guide below — we break down each stage so you get perfect results the very first time.
Sear the shrimp first
Cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque, then remove them so they do not overcook while the sauce comes together.
Build a silky sauce
Cook the garlic gently, simmer the cream and broth, and whisk in freshly grated Parmesan off the highest heat for a smooth sauce. Wilt in spinach for color if you like.
Toss and finish
Add the pasta and shrimp and toss with reserved pasta water until the sauce clings to every strand. Serve right away while it is at its creamiest.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth. Cream sauces are best enjoyed fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or your favorite grain. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it lighter?+
Replace part of the cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be thinner.
Can I use frozen shrimp?+
Yes. Thaw and pat dry first so they sear and do not water down the sauce.
What pasta works best?+
Penne, linguine, or fettuccine all hold the creamy sauce well.
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