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: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
Pasta With Perks: Fun Variations
Pasta Plating: Fresh And Simple
Shrimp Pasta – Save Some For Later
FAQs
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water.
Keep the heat low and add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
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.
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
Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Ingredient Checklist
Main Ingredients:Flavor Enhancers:Cooking Essentials: Print
Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- 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
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
- Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high temperature until butter melts completely.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until they turn vibrant pink and develop a slight golden exterior.
- Transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate, maintaining their warmth and juiciness.
- Reduce heat to medium and introduce minced garlic to the same skillet, sautéing until aromatic and lightly golden.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, incorporating lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Whisk gently to create a smooth, fragrant sauce.
- Gradually sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the simmering cream, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and integrates seamlessly.
- Reintroduce seared shrimp to the creamy sauce, gently coating each piece with the luxurious mixture.
- Combine reserved pasta with the shrimp and sauce, tossing delicately to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- 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
Founder & Lead Recipe Developer
Expertise
Education
Santa Fe Community College
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.