Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, look no further! This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delicious, one-pan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy occasion. With succulent shrimp, rich cream sauce, fresh lemon, and a hint of garlic, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Keep reading to discover the secrets to mastering this delectable dish, along with tips, tricks, and common mistakes to avoid!

---

What is Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a luxurious pasta dish made with tender shrimp cooked in a creamy, tangy sauce flavored with fresh garlic and lemon. The combination of creamy sauce with a hint of zesty lemon complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp and creates a perfectly balanced flavor. Served over pasta, this dish is indulgent yet light, making it an ideal choice for any seafood lover.

---

Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

For the Pasta

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta – Choose a pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce well.

For the Shrimp and Sauce

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or frozen shrimp both work; just make sure to thaw if using frozen.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and adding flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich and creamy texture.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce.
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter – Enhances the creaminess.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon – The star of the show, adding tanginess and zest.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, but adds a nice hint of spice.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish and added freshness.

---

Substitutions and Variations

• Pasta: Use spaghetti, penne, or any other pasta you prefer. Gluten-free pasta also works well.
• Shrimp: You can substitute shrimp with scallops, lobster, or even chicken for a different twist.
• Cream: If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Parmesan Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon: For a milder lemon flavor, reduce the lemon juice or use lemon zest only.
• Spice Level: If you like a kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already cleaned. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Zest and juice the lemon, chop the garlic and parsley, and measure out the remaining ingredients for smooth cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Lemon Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Lemon

• Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to blend everything together.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy lemon garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

---

How to Cook Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the Shrimp: Make sure to peel, devein, and pat the shrimp dry. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from steaming.
2. Cook the Pasta: Salted water is crucial for flavor. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water for later!
3. Sauté the Shrimp: Cook them quickly over medium heat until just done, then set aside to avoid overcooking.
4. Create the Sauce: Melt butter, add garlic, then pour in cream and broth. Let it simmer to infuse the flavors.
5. Finish with Parmesan and Lemon: Stir in cheese until creamy, then add lemon zest and juice for that perfect tang.
6. Toss Everything Together: Add pasta and shrimp to the sauce, and stir until everything is well coated.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so be sure to remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
• Curdling the Cream: Avoid boiling the sauce at high heat, as this can cause the cream to separate. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer.
• Using Too Much Lemon Juice: Lemon is a powerful flavor; too much can overpower the sauce. Start with a small amount, then adjust to taste.
• Skipping Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency and makes it cling to the pasta better.
• Adding Parmesan Too Fast: To avoid clumps, add Parmesan slowly while stirring, allowing it to melt evenly.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, presentation is key! Here are some ideas to make this dish look as appetizing as it tastes.

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color.
• Add Lemon Slices: Place a few thin lemon slices or wedges on the side of the plate for an extra touch of elegance.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: A little extra Parmesan sprinkled on top not only adds flavor but also enhances the look of the dish.
• Serve in a Shallow Bowl: Shallow bowls allow the pasta to spread out, showcasing the sauce and shrimp.

---

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This pasta dish is best served warm, right off the stove. Pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans. For wine lovers, a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and lemon flavors perfectly.

---

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Twirl the Pasta: Use tongs to create a twirl of pasta on the plate, placing the shrimp artfully around it.
• Serve Family-Style: Present the pasta in a large serving bowl with extra lemon wedges and grated cheese on the side.
• Individual Portions: For a fancier look, plate individual portions and garnish with microgreens or a sprig of rosemary.

---

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is essential for bright, zesty flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice.
• Pat the Shrimp Dry: Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp develop a nice sear.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Season to Taste: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon to your preference.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can cause the sauce to separate. However, you can prep ingredients in advance to save time.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes make great additions to the dish.

Q: What other herbs can I use?
A: Basil, thyme, or chives would all work well with the flavors of lemon and garlic.

---

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a wonderful combination of flavors that brings a taste of luxury to your home-cooked meal. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you're serving it as a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal, this dish is sure to impress. Try it tonight and bring a delicious twist to your pasta game!

Print