This Creamy Italian Shrimp Pasta is a real treat! It features juicy shrimp mixed with pasta and a rich, creamy sauce that’s simply delicious. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
You can whip this up in no time! I love to top it off with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this tasty dish! 🍤🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works great in this recipe. You can swap it for other types like spaghetti or whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
Shrimp: I recommend using large shrimp for a hearty bite. If you’re not a seafood fan, feel free to substitute with grilled chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter choice, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. This will change the flavor a bit, but it still keeps it creamy.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice punch of flavor! If you don’t have them, consider using fresh cherry tomatoes or skipping them entirely for a simpler dish.
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce lies in the combination of heavy cream and cheese. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by sautéing your aromatics like onion and garlic until fragrant—but don’t burn them!
- When you add the cream and chicken broth, bring it to a light simmer. This helps in melding all flavors together.
- If your sauce feels too thick, add in small amounts of reserved pasta water. This not only helps with consistency but also adds flavor from the pasta!
- Stir in the cheese gradually. Allow it to melt completely before adding the shrimp back. This prevents clumping.
Remember, taking your time with each step ensures a rich, creamy sauce!
How to Make Creamy Italian Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy pasta dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the fettuccine or linguine according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta but make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This will help adjust the sauce later if it’s too thick.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until you can smell the garlic!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a light simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing it until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you find the sauce a bit thick, add reserved pasta water a little by little until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
Add the sun-dried tomatoes (if using) back into the skillet, and return the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Gently fold in the cooked pasta to the sauce, making sure it’s well combined. Adjust the flavor with salt and pepper as needed. Lastly, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil right before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Italian shrimp pasta! It makes for a fantastic meal that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely beforehand. The best way to do this is to place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or to run them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well, but it will impart a slight coconut flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for a delicious addition to the pasta!
