Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Zesty Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe for Dinner Magic

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta delivers pure magic on a plate.

Succulent shrimp dance with silky noodles in a luxurious sauce that sparks joy with every bite.

Bright citrus notes mingle with rich, velvety cream and fragrant garlic for an irresistible combination.

Each forkful promises a delightful balance of flavors that feels both comforting and elegant.

Quick to prepare and impossible to resist, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal.

Comfort meets sophistication in this crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Creamy Shrimp Pasta: How-To Guide

Step 1: Prepare Pasta

Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta until it reaches al dente perfection.

Drain the pasta thoroughly, allowing it to rest while you create the magical sauce.

Step 2: Sear Succulent Shrimp

Heat a blend of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Carefully add shrimp to the pan, seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Cook each side until the shrimp turn a beautiful pink and become wonderfully opaque.

Gently transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.

Step 3: Awaken Garlic Flavors

In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and let it dance and sizzle for about a minute, releasing its intoxicating aroma throughout the kitchen.

Step 4: Create Dreamy Sauce

Pour in these delightful ingredients:
  • Heavy cream
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon juice

Stir the mixture and allow it to simmer gently, creating a luxurious base for your pasta.

Step 5: Melt Parmesan Magic

Slowly incorporate Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until it melts completely and creates a smooth, velvety texture.

Step 6: Reunite Shrimp and Sauce

Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, coating them lovingly in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Combine Pasta Perfection

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until each strand is beautifully coated with the luscious sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta immediately, sprinkling fresh parsley and extra lemon zest on top for a burst of freshness and color.

Shrimp Pasta: Kitchen Secrets

  • Choose large, deveined shrimp for quick cooking and best flavor.
  • Simmer sauce gently to prevent separation and maintain creamy texture.
  • Remove shrimp immediately once they turn pink to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Use both zest and juice for a bright, vibrant citrus profile that complements the creamy sauce.
  • Add Parmesan gradually and stir continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce without lumps.

Pasta With Perks: Fun Variations

  • Dairy-Free Coconut Cream Version: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a creamy, vegan-friendly alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Zucchini Noodle Option: Swap traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free version that keeps the dish light and fresh.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Add red pepper flakes, swap lemon for sun-dried tomatoes, and incorporate feta cheese to give the dish a bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Protein-Packed Quinoa Swap: Use quinoa instead of pasta to boost protein content and create a more nutritionally dense meal that's perfect for health-conscious eaters.

Pasta Plating: Fresh And Simple

  • Zesty Brunch Delight: Pair with a crisp mimosa or sparkling white wine to enhance the lemon and garlic flavors.
  • Mediterranean Platter Companion: Serve alongside a fresh Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
  • Elegant Dinner Setting: Plate on a white ceramic dish with a sprinkle of extra parsley and lemon wedges for a restaurant-quality presentation that impresses guests.
  • Texture Contrast Add-On: Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy pasta texture.

Shrimp Pasta – Save Some For Later

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
  • Gently reheat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore sauce's creamy texture. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and maintain consistency.
  • This dish doesn't freeze well due to cream sauce's tendency to separate and pasta's potential for becoming mushy when thawed.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water.

  • How do I prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy?

Keep the heat low and add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

  • Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and might not be as thick as the original recipe.

  • What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta are excellent choices as they hold the creamy sauce well and complement the shrimp.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Bright & Fresh

  • Whip Up a Gourmet Meal: Impress your loved ones with a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to prepare, making you feel like a professional chef.
  • Perfect for Busy Weeknights: Requires minimal ingredients and comes together quickly, providing a delicious solution for hectic schedules without compromising on flavor.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Combines creamy, tangy, and savory elements that appeal to both kids and adults, making it an ideal family dinner option that everyone will enjoy.
  • Versatile Entertaining Dish: Elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a casual meal, this recipe adapts to various dining occasions with its sophisticated yet approachable style.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Ingredient Checklist

Main Ingredients:
  • Pasta: A staple ingredient that provides the base for this creamy and flavorful dish.
  • Shrimp: Tender seafood that adds protein and a delicate ocean flavor to the recipe.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and smooth sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bright and zesty ingredients that add a fresh and tangy dimension to the dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A salty and nutty cheese that helps thicken and enrich the creamy sauce.
Cooking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil, Butter, Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings and fats that help develop flavor and prevent sticking during cooking.
  • Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that provides a pop of color and fresh herbal note.
Print
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta delivers Mediterranean coastal flavors with zesty elegance. Quick weeknight magic meets gourmet satisfaction when bold garlic, tangy lemon, and tender shrimp dance together in a luxurious sauce you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Pasta and Starches:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite type)

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or basil

Instructions

  1. Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high temperature until butter melts completely.
  3. Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until they turn vibrant pink and develop a slight golden exterior.
  4. Transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate, maintaining their warmth and juiciness.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and introduce minced garlic to the same skillet, sautéing until aromatic and lightly golden.
  6. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, incorporating lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Whisk gently to create a smooth, fragrant sauce.
  7. Gradually sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the simmering cream, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and integrates seamlessly.
  8. Reintroduce seared shrimp to the creamy sauce, gently coating each piece with the luxurious mixture.
  9. Combine reserved pasta with the shrimp and sauce, tossing delicately to ensure even distribution of flavors.
  10. Plate immediately, garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley and additional lemon zest for a bright, citrusy finish.

Notes

  • Select medium-sized shrimp for consistent cooking and attractive presentation.
  • Pat shrimp dry before cooking to achieve perfect golden-brown sear and prevent watery texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for richer, more authentic flavor compared to pre-packaged versions.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding pasta water if sauce becomes too thick during cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 595 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 155 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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