Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Tender, juicy shrimp tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce make this dish an irresistible homemade favorite. With Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a hint of lemon, this easy seafood pasta is perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) linguine or fettuccine pasta

1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

5 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup reserved pasta water

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter: Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the remaining butter in the same skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until coated. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
7. Add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together for another minute until heated through.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Serving Tip

Serve with warm garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a delicious, restaurant-style dinner at home.

This creamy garlic butter shrimp pasta is packed with rich flavor, tender seafood, and a beautifully silky sauce. Would you add extra Parmesan or a little more spice?