Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe: A Delightfully Easy Dish

This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal. It's packed with flavor and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy cooks. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to serving suggestions, ensuring you create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to double or triple the recipe as needed.

• 1 pound linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta shape!
• 1 pound shrimp: Peeled and deveined. Larger shrimp will cook faster.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is preferred for better flavor control.
• 4 cloves garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic adds the best flavor.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp kick.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and extra freshness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Add Shrimp and Cheese: Stir in the cooked shrimp and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Pasta:

• Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to make it a more complete meal.
• Wine pairing: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with this creamy shrimp pasta.

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Beyond the Recipe:

This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is a versatile base. Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique variations. You can also add different proteins, such as chicken or sausage, to change up the flavor profile. Enjoy!