Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta

Name: Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (linguine or fettuccine); 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort

I absolutely love making Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta at home! The combination of succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy sauce is truly irresistible. Whenever I serve this, it never fails to impress family and friends alike. It’s a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. I appreciate how quickly the flavors come together, allowing me to create a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat with this delicious pasta dish!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:33:35.037Z

When I first tried shrimp in a creamy sauce, I knew I had to recreate it at home! I experimented with different herbs and spices, finally settling on garlic and parsley for that perfect flavor boost. Cooking the shrimp just until they turn pink keeps them tender and juicy, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy sauce.

This pasta dish quickly became a family favorite, especially on busy weeknights. I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan, and sometimes, I add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty finish. Everyone keeps asking for the recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp that add a gourmet touch to any meal
Creamy and flavorful sauce that coats each pasta bite perfectly
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta for your shrimp cream sauce is crucial for achieving a delightful texture that holds onto the sauce. Linguine or fettuccine are excellent choices due to their flat shape, which allows the creamy sauce to cling beautifully. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for high-quality gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package closely, as gluten-free varieties may require a slightly different cooking time.

To ensure your pasta comes out perfectly al dente, I recommend checking it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. The pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce. If you find yourself with leftover pasta, toss it in a little olive oil to prevent sticking before storing.

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is where this dish really shines, so it's important to use high-quality heavy cream for the best flavor and texture. A good heavy cream will create a rich and luxurious mouthfeel. Make sure to simmer the sauce gently, as boiling can cause it to separate or become too thick. Stir continuously to keep the sauce smooth and glossy, adding the parmesan gradually for a uniform mixture.

If you're looking to elevate the flavor profile of the sauce, consider incorporating additional ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine before adding the cream. These additions can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the cream and shrimp. Remember to adjust the seasoning after these additions to ensure a balanced taste.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your shrimp cream sauce pasta, presentation is key. I like to plate the pasta in shallow bowls, twirling it with a fork for an elegant look. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the creaminess of the sauce. For an extra touch, consider topping the dish with additional freshly grated parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.

This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, you might also serve it with a light, crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the shrimp beautifully. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making this meal ideal for easy reheating.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta

Main Ingredients

300g pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Sauté Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is achieved.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious shrimp cream sauce pasta with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're not a fan of shrimp or looking for alternatives, chicken or even tofu can be a great substitute. For chicken, use boneless, skinless thighs or breasts, cooking them until fully cooked before adding to the sauce. Tofu should be pressed and cubed, then sautéed in the skillet until golden-brown for a firm texture in the final dish.

For a dairy-free version, you can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, both of which add a unique flavor and creaminess without the dairy. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning as both options can slightly change the taste of the sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this dish is quick to prepare, you can simplify your evening cooking by prepping some ingredients in advance. You can clean and devein the shrimp ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can mince the garlic and measure out your cream and cheese, streamlining the cooking process when you're ready to make dinner.

If you plan to serve this dish for a special occasion, consider assembling the sauce in advance without adding the pasta. Simply store it in the fridge and heat it up gently when you're ready to serve. Cook the pasta fresh to ensure it's perfectly al dente, then combine everything right before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cream sauce ends up too thick, don't worry! Simply add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This technique not only thins the sauce but also helps to bind it to the pasta, ensuring a cohesive dish.

In case the sauce separates or curdles, try gently reheating it on low heat while stirring continuously. You can also whisk in a bit more cream to bring it back together. Keeping the heat low throughout the cooking process is essential to maintaining a smooth, creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just make sure they're fully thawed before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Linguine or fettuccine works wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.

→ How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half and half or milk, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli or spinach can be great additions for extra nutrients and flavor.