There’s something truly special about a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Creamy shrimp pasta does exactly that—it wraps you in layers of garlic butter and delicate cream sauce, with tender shrimp that melt in your mouth. It’s not just dinner; it’s an experience that lingers.
One evening, I remember coming home exhausted and craving something that would feel both indulgent and comforting. As the fettuccine boiled, the kitchen filled with the aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in the pan. The sound of shrimp cooking, the gentle simmer of wine reducing, and the creamy sauce thickening—it all combined into a melody of comfort. When I finally sat down to eat, the first forkful was a moment of pure satisfaction. The creamy sauce clung perfectly to the pasta, and the shrimp added just the right touch of sweetness and texture. It was more than a meal; it was a pause, a breath, a reminder that simple pleasures matter.
- Rich, velvety cream sauce that clings to every strand of fettuccine
- Succulent shrimp cooked just right, adding a delicate seafood flavor
- Hints of garlic and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes for depth
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner
- Fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of color to finish
If you’re worried about making something that feels fancy but ends up complicated, this dish strikes the perfect balance. No need for hours in the kitchen—just straightforward steps that reward you with a restaurant-worthy dinner at home.
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Creamy Shrimp Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A rich and flavorful creamy shrimp pasta featuring tender shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce with a luscious cream sauce, tossed with fettuccine for a comforting and elegant meal.
Ingredients
12 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
What can I substitute for white wine?
A light chicken broth or vegetable broth works well if you prefer to skip the wine.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it entirely.
When a meal feels this good, it’s easy to see why it becomes a favorite. Try this creamy shrimp pasta tonight and create your own little moment of comfort and joy.