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Shrimp Cream Sauce Pasta

This shrimp cream sauce pasta combines tender, sweet shrimp with a silky, garlicky cream sauce for a cozy yet elegant meal. The dish features a rich, buttery texture with bright hints of lemon, all coming together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The final appearance is a glossy, creamy pasta coated evenly with colorful shrimp and fresh herbs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lb shrimp, deveined and peeled tail-on preferred
  • 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, making sure it doesn’t burn.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble softly for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Add the lemon juice to the cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
  6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet as well, tossing everything together until evenly coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss lightly. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately while warm and glossy.