Craving restaurant-quality pasta at home? This creamy shrimp pasta recipe delivers rich, satisfying flavors in just 30 minutes. Tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxurious cheese sauce come together for a dinner that’s both impressive and comforting.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Why This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe Works
This one-pan shrimp pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of juicy shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring to a rolling boil and cook your spaghetti or linguine according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Save about half a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the flavor base for your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, flipping once, until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them – shrimp cook very quickly and can become tough if left too long.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Don’t let it boil rapidly or it might curdle. Gradually stir in the shredded cheese, mixing constantly until it’s completely melted and smooth. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Bring Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Choose the right shrimp: Medium to large shrimp work best. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Don’t overcook the shrimp: They should be pink and just opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
Use room temperature cream: This helps prevent curdling when you add it to the hot pan.
Save pasta water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and can thin it if needed.
Fresh vs. canned tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness, while canned tomatoes provide more concentrated flavor.
Recipe Variations
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
Vegetable boost: Include spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Cheese options: Try Parmesan, Gruyere, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.
Protein swap: Replace shrimp with chicken, scallops, or keep it vegetarian with extra vegetables.
What to Serve With Creamy Shrimp Pasta
This rich pasta pairs wonderfully with:
- Crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover creamy shrimp pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to a skillet over low heat and warm gently, stirring frequently. The pasta may absorb some sauce as it sits, so the extra liquid helps restore the creamy texture.
Nutrition Information
This hearty pasta dish provides plenty of protein from the shrimp and is rich in calcium from the cheese and cream. The bell peppers add vitamin C and fiber, while the tomatoes contribute lycopene and antioxidants.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep the vegetables and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to make the sauce. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.
This creamy shrimp pasta recipe proves that restaurant-quality meals can be made at home with simple ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or family dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
