There's nothing quite like twirling a forkful of creamy garlic shrimp pasta and savoring that first rich, buttery bite. The tender shrimp, the silky sauce infused with garlic, and the al dente pasta all come together in a comforting, restaurant-worthy dish that's deceptively easy to make at home.

I first crafted this recipe on a chilly Sunday evening when I craved something indulgent yet simple. What started as a pantry pull turned into a household staple—quick enough for weeknights, luxurious enough for date nights.

The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes and doesn’t require any complicated steps or fancy ingredients. Let’s dive into what makes this pasta a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you're on the hunt for your new go-to pasta dish, look no further. This creamy garlic shrimp pasta has all the hallmarks of a fan favorite—flavorful, quick, and endlessly versatile.

First off, the speed is unbeatable. From start to finish, this dish takes about 25–30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings or last-minute dinners when you're low on time but still want to eat well.

It’s also incredibly easy. There’s no need for multiple pans or complicated prep. A single skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are all you need to get dinner on the table.

This dish is surprisingly budget-friendly, especially when shrimp is on sale. Using everyday ingredients like pasta, garlic, and cream, you can create a luxurious-tasting meal without spending a fortune.

And let’s not forget its versatility. Whether you swap in chicken, go dairy-free, or toss in some spinach or mushrooms, this dish can be reinvented countless ways to suit your cravings and pantry staples.

All of this makes creamy garlic shrimp pasta a weeknight hero you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this creamy garlic shrimp pasta lies in its balance—each ingredient is simple on its own, but together, they create something truly crave-worthy.

Let’s start with the shrimp. Medium or large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, are ideal. I recommend leaving the tails on for presentation, but you can remove them if you prefer easier eating. Make sure to pat the shrimp dry before cooking to get a nice sear.

Garlic is the heart and soul of the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is key here—pre-minced jars won’t give you the same robust flavor. Don’t be shy; you’ll want at least 4–5 cloves to infuse the cream with bold, aromatic notes.

Next comes the cream. I use heavy cream for a rich, luxurious texture. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but it won’t be quite as velvety. Stirring in a bit of grated Parmesan adds depth and helps thicken the sauce naturally.

Pasta plays a crucial supporting role. Linguine or fettuccine works best, but spaghetti or even short pasta like penne can be used in a pinch. Make sure it’s cooked to just shy of al dente since it will finish in the sauce.

You’ll also need butter and olive oil for sautéing, along with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring balance and just a hint of heat.

For equipment, all you need is a large skillet, a pot for the pasta, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Simple tools for a show-stopping dish.

How To Make This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Cooking this creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a breeze—just follow these steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While that's heating up, prepare your shrimp by seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Be sure they’re well dried before hitting the pan.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon each of butter and olive oil, then toss in the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until pink and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set them aside—you’ll add them back later.

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds to a minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown; you want it soft and aromatic, not bitter.

Slowly pour in the cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, then stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta until just al dente, then reserve a half cup of pasta water before draining. Add the pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Finally, return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Let it simmer for another minute or two so the flavors meld. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and chopped parsley, if you like.

From stovetop to table, you’re looking at just around 30 minutes total—and an irresistible meal that feels like a treat every time.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this creamy garlic shrimp pasta store surprisingly well—perfect for next-day lunches or late-night cravings.

For refrigeration, transfer the pasta to an airtight container within two hours of cooking. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure the container seals tightly to maintain freshness.

If you're planning to store it longer, freezing is an option. However, keep in mind that the cream-based sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce’s texture. Avoid microwaving at full power, as it can toughen the shrimp and break the sauce—low and slow is best here.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is a dream for anyone who likes to tweak recipes to fit their taste—or their pantry.

Want to go dairy-free? You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or full-fat coconut milk. Just note the flavor will be slightly different—richer and a bit tropical with coconut.

Not a fan of shrimp? Chicken or scallops make great alternatives. Sliced cooked sausage or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms can bring just as much flavor and heartiness.

If you're looking to add greens, try tossing in some baby spinach or kale toward the end of cooking. They'll wilt beautifully into the sauce and add a pop of color and nutrients.

For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The creamy garlic sauce works well with most pasta alternatives, from brown rice to chickpea-based varieties.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, or stir in some lemon zest right before serving for a burst of brightness.

With its rich flavors, easy prep, and endless possibilities, creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you're serving it to impress guests or just treating yourself on a weeknight, this recipe is pure comfort in a bowl.