If you’ve ever wanted to wow your friends or family with a dish that sings with flavor and feels like a warm hug in every bite, then this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is your golden ticket. A luscious, garlicky sauce envelops perfectly cooked linguine and tender shrimp, marrying smoky paprika with the rich tang of Parmesan cheese. This meal is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting, elegant dinner that brings that restaurant-quality wow factor right to your own kitchen. Once you make this creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe, it just might become your favorite go-to for a deliciously simple yet impressive dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with raw shrimp coated in a light red spice mix, showing the grayish-blue and white colors of the shrimp with the reddish spice dusted unevenly over them. The shrimp appear curled and layered inside the bowl, with some shrimp overlapping others. The background is a white marbled texture, and the scene is shot closely to show the shrimp in detail. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating the magic of this dish. Each plays a vital role, from delivering bold flavor and creamy texture to adding that perfect color contrast that makes the pasta pop on your plate.

1 to 2 pounds peeled, deveined shrimp: The star protein, tender and quick to cook, makes this dish both hearty and scrumptious.
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that enhances the shrimp beautifully; regular paprika works as well if you prefer.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that balance and lift every bite.
12 ounces linguine or spaghetti: Your pasta canvas for this creamy masterpiece, choose your favorite long noodles.
1 tablespoon butter: Used with olive oil to sear the shrimp, creating a luscious base flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in cooking the shrimp gently while adding a touch of fruitiness.
2 tablespoons butter: For making that buttery, garlicky sauce that ties it all together.
3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely minced: Garlic is the heart of the sauce—aromatic, pungent, and utterly addictive.
1 1/2 cups milk (not skim) or heavy cream: This is your sauce’s luxurious base; full-fat works best for creaminess.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: To gently thicken the sauce and give it that silky texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: To season the sauce perfectly without overpowering other flavors.
Pinch of black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: The secret to a rich, cheesy finish that melts right into the sauce.
Chopped, fresh parsley: For a fresh, green burst of color and flavor as a garnish.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Perfect for sprinkling on top when serving to add an extra savory touch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Shrimp

Start by patting your peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels—this ensures they sear nicely without steaming. Toss them in a bowl with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to coat each piece with a smoky, spiced kick that will elevate the entire dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your linguine or spaghetti. Cook until just al dente, following the package instructions for timing. Before draining, scoop out 1 to 2 cups of pasta water and set it aside; this starchy water is a game changer for loosening your sauce later.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet until hot and shimmering. Cook half of the shrimp in a single layer for about 30 to 45 seconds per side until they’re a lovely pink, then transfer them to a plate. Repeat with the remaining shrimp, taking care not to overcrowd the pan so each piece cooks evenly and gets that beautiful sear.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add your finely minced garlic and sauté for about 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant—but watch closely to avoid burning it. The garlic infuses the butter with that signature flavor that makes this pasta irresistible.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

If you’re going the milk route, whisk it together with cornstarch to prevent lumps, then pour the mixture into the skillet. For heavy cream, just pour it in directly. Whisk continuously as the sauce bubbles and thickens gently over 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates that silky, clingy base that coats your pasta beautifully.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in salt, pepper, and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring over medium heat until the cheese melts and everything is combined into a rich, cheesy sauce that smells like comfort in a skillet.

Step 7: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Add your cooked noodles to the skillet, lifting and tossing with tongs to make sure every strand is luxuriously coated. Use spoonfuls of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency—it should be creamy but not gloopy. Then gently fold in the cooked shrimp, tasting and adjusting seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Serve Immediately

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and herbal freshness. Serve your creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe right away for that perfect, luscious texture. Don’t forget extra Parmesan cheese on the side for anyone wanting just a hint more cheesy goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a large silver metal bowl filled with cooked spaghetti noodles coated in a creamy, light beige sauce. The noodles have a soft and slightly sticky texture, swirling in thick layers filling the bowl. A black kitchen tong is lifting a portion of the spaghetti strands from the bowl, highlighting the glossy sauce that clings to the noodles. The background surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley chopped finely adds a vibrant, herby note and beautiful green contrast that brightens every plate. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan right before serving is a little celebration of the cheese’s nutty richness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a simple side of steamed asparagus. If you want to go all out, a warm, crusty garlic bread is a perfect way to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, twirl the pasta into elegant nests in each bowl, then nestle the shrimp artfully on top. Garnish with extra parsley and freshly cracked black pepper for that professional touch. You can also serve this dish family-style in a big, beautiful dish right in the center to inspire everyone to dig in and share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days to keep that creamy texture and fresh seafood flavor intact.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh because freezing can alter the texture of the shrimp and cream sauce. However, if needed, you can freeze the pasta and sauce separately without shrimp for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring back that creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming grainy. Add the shrimp last just to warm through without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works fine. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to get a good sear without excess water diluting the flavors.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese make excellent substitutes, offering a similarly salty, nutty flavor.

Is it okay to use skim milk for the sauce?

It’s best to use whole milk or heavy cream because skim milk doesn’t provide the same richness or creaminess that defines this sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap out traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and just keep an eye on the pasta water—some gluten-free noodles release less starch.

How do I prevent garlic from burning in the sauce?

Cook the garlic on medium or medium-low heat and stir frequently. Garlic cooks quickly and burns easily, so once it’s fragrant, move on to the next step promptly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe that feels both indulgent and comforting in every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or serving loved ones, this dish promises bright flavors, rich texture, and effortless elegance. Go on, give it a whirl in your kitchen and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite at your dinner table!