If you’re in search of a quick and satisfying dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this Easy Shrimp Pasta with Juicy Garlic Shrimp checks every box. It’s rich, creamy, just the right amount of spicy, and loaded with tender shrimp that are seasoned to perfection. This is one of those recipes that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but takes less than 30 minutes to bring together in your own kitchen.

I first made this dish on a busy weeknight when I had shrimp defrosting in the fridge and not a lot of time. I pulled together a few pantry staples—garlic, pasta, cream, and Parmesan—and before I knew it, dinner was done. The shrimp were buttery and flavorful, the sauce was luxuriously creamy with a little kick from the chili flakes, and the lemon juice added a bright, zesty touch that kept the dish from feeling too heavy.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, cooking for two, or treating yourself to a solo dinner, this pasta delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—use your favorite pasta shape, adjust the spice level, or even throw in some veggies for a complete one-pan meal.

Let’s jump into the first part of the recipe and start building this crowd-pleasing dinner, step by step.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

STEP 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions. Fettuccine or spaghetti both work beautifully here, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. You’ll be adding it back into the sauce later, so make sure not to overcook it.

Tip: Reserve a little bit of the pasta water before draining—about 1/4 cup. You might want to use it later to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.

STEP 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

This step adds a ton of flavor to the dish—the seared shrimp will soak up the creamy sauce later for a perfect bite every time.

STEP 3: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn. The garlic infuses the oil with bold, savory flavor and forms the base of your creamy sauce.

Easy Shrimp Pasta Recipes for Dinner with Juicy Garlic Shrimp

At this point in the recipe, you’ve got tender pasta ready to go, juicy shrimp set aside, and a skillet infused with garlic just waiting to turn into a creamy, flavor-packed sauce. This is where everything comes together, and that familiar aroma of garlic, Parmesan, and cream starts to fill your kitchen.

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you get a restaurant-worthy meal that feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just want something comforting at the end of a long day, this creamy garlic shrimp pasta delivers every time.

Let’s move on to the next steps—building the sauce and pulling all the flavors together for one seriously satisfying dinner.

STEP 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

With your skillet still hot from cooking the garlic, pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and bring it to a low simmer over medium heat. The cream will start to bubble slightly around the edges—this is your cue to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce turns smooth and velvety. The Parmesan thickens the sauce naturally, adding a rich, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

Tip: If your sauce feels too thick, you can thin it slightly with a splash of reserved pasta water or an extra tablespoon of cream.

STEP 5: Add Lemon Juice and Chili Flakes

Now it’s time to add a burst of brightness to the dish. Stir in the lemon juice and, if you like a little heat, sprinkle in the chili flakes. The lemon juice adds a zesty contrast that balances the richness of the cream, while the chili flakes provide a gentle kick that elevates the overall flavor.

This balance of creamy, spicy, and citrusy makes the dish feel light and indulgent all at once.

STEP 6: Combine the Shrimp and Pasta

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Then add the drained pasta and gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and the shrimp are distributed throughout.

You want every bite to be packed with flavor, so take a minute to stir thoroughly. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, making each forkful creamy and rich.

STEP 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a pop of color and a bit of freshness to balance the richness of the sauce. Serve the pasta hot, either directly from the skillet or plated up with a wedge of lemon on the side for extra zing.

Tips for Serving and Customizing

• Add Veggies: Toss in some baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms to add color and texture.
• Switch the Pasta: Linguine, penne, or tagliatelle work well if you want a change from fettuccine or spaghetti.
• Use Frozen Shrimp: No time to prep fresh shrimp? Frozen, pre-cooked shrimp can work in a pinch—just thaw and add at the end to warm through.
• Spice it Up: If you like more heat, increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Easy Shrimp Pasta Recipes for Dinner with Juicy Garlic Shrimp

You’ve built the layers of flavor, tossed everything together in a creamy Parmesan sauce, and garnished your pasta with fresh herbs. This Easy Shrimp Pasta is one of those recipes that manages to feel both indulgent and approachable, making it perfect for just about any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just enjoying a comforting bowl for yourself, it’s the kind of dish that delivers every single time.

Before we wrap things up, let’s answer a few of the most common questions about this recipe so you can feel confident making it—and maybe even customizing it—your own way.

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and prevents excess moisture in the pan.

2. What type of cream should I use?
Heavy cream is best for a rich, thick sauce. You can also use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be slightly thinner.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This pasta is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and when ready to serve, reheat everything and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

5. Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative if you want a slightly saltier flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can work, but freshly grated melts and blends better into the sauce.

6. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can use a dairy-free cream alternative (like coconut cream or a cashew-based option) and omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free Parmesan. The flavor will change slightly, but the dish will still be creamy and flavorful.

7. What should I serve with this shrimp pasta?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great sides. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, also pairs beautifully.

Final Thoughts: A Weeknight Classic That Feels Special

This Easy Shrimp Pasta with Juicy Garlic Shrimp is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular dinner rotation. It’s fast enough for weeknights, satisfying enough for weekends, and customizable for just about any taste or occasion. The combination of tender shrimp, a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and just a hint of lemon and spice makes every bite rich and flavorful without being overwhelming.

What I love most about this dish is how simple ingredients come together to create something truly comforting and restaurant-worthy. You can stick with the base recipe or dress it up with extras—either way, it’s going to be a hit.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Did you go bold with the chili flakes? Add in spinach or mushrooms? Let us know in the comments. However you serve it, this creamy shrimp pasta is sure to bring everyone to the table.

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