If you're looking for a delicious, quick, and elegant dish that packs a flavorful punch, then this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the answer. The combination of succulent shrimp, a tangy lemon-garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish a weeknight winner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a special occasion. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, youโll have a rich, creamy, and refreshing pasta dish on the table in under 30 minutes! Read on to learn how to make this irresistible recipe, and don't miss the tips for perfecting it.

What is Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a pasta dish that combines tender shrimp sautรฉed with garlic and finished in a creamy lemon-infused sauce. The brightness of lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a well-balanced sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Shrimp, with its natural sweetness, complements the tangy and savory flavors, while fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese elevate the dish into something truly special. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and elegant occasions.
Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
To make this delightful pasta dish, youโll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Hereโs what youโll need to gather:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work great)
- Salt for the pasta water
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ยฝ cup chicken broth (or seafood broth for extra flavor)
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons of juice)
- ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices or wedges for serving (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, so donโt worry if youโre missing an ingredient or want to switch things up. Here are some easy substitutions and variations:
- Pasta: While linguine or spaghetti are classics for this recipe, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta will work perfectly.
- Shrimp: Feel free to substitute the shrimp with scallops, crab meat, or even lobster for a more luxurious version of the dish. For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with sautรฉed mushrooms or zucchini.
- Lighter option: You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk to make a lighter version of the sauce.
- Herbs: If youโre out of parsley, try using fresh basil, dill, or chives for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Toss in some fresh spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now, letโs dive into the step-by-step process of making Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Follow this guide closely to ensure everything comes out perfectly.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ยฝ cup of the pasta water in case you need it to adjust the sauceโs consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautรฉ for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust the lemon flavor as neededโadd more juice for extra tanginess.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will help thicken the sauce further and add a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the shrimp are heated through.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
How to Cook Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Hereโs a summarized version of the steps to follow for a perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta every time:
- Boil the pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, then drain, saving some pasta water for later.
- Cook the shrimp: Sear seasoned shrimp for a few minutes until pink, then set aside.
- Make the sauce: Sautรฉ garlic, add broth and cream, then mix in lemon zest and juice.
- Combine: Toss pasta and shrimp in the sauce, adding Parmesan and a little pasta water as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery.
- Too much lemon: Lemon is a key flavor in this dish, but too much can overpower the creamy sauce. Start with the amount in the recipe and adjust to taste.
- Thick or thin sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Salting the pasta water: Make sure your pasta water is well-salted. This is the first chance to season the pasta itself, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
For a restaurant-quality dining experience at home, here are some tips on how to serve and present your Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Serve the pasta in deep bowls for a cozy, comforting presentation. Use tongs to twirl the pasta neatly before placing the shrimp on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for extra freshness and visual appeal.
- Pair this dish with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the creamy richness of the sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan can add color and elegance.
- Lemon slices: Place thin lemon slices or wedges on the side of the plate for added brightness and a beautiful pop of yellow.
- Serve with sides: Complement the pasta with a light side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Tips
- Use fresh shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp rather than frozen, if possible. However, frozen shrimp will work well as long as they are properly thawed.
- Fresh lemons are key: Donโt skimp on the lemonโuse freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest to get the most vibrant flavor.
- Tweak to taste: Everyoneโs taste buds are different, so feel free to adjust the level of garlic, lemon, or Parmesan based on your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What kind of pasta works best?
Linguine, spaghetti, and fettuccine are great choices for this creamy sauce. However, you can use any pasta shape you like.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can cook the shrimp and prepare the sauce ahead of time. When you're ready to serve, just cook the pasta and reheat the sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you want a little kick.
Conclusion
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a delicious blend of zesty citrus, rich cream, and perfectly cooked shrimp, all tossed with tender pasta. Itโs a simple yet elegant meal thatโs sure to impress whether youโre cooking for your family or entertaining guests. The bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and creamy sauce come together in a way that feels both comforting and fresh. Follow our tips and instructions, and youโll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Time to get cooking and enjoy this flavorful, creamy pasta dish tonight!
PrintCreamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a zesty and flavorful meal featuring succulent shrimp, fresh lemon, garlic, and a rich cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy pasta dish brings together vibrant citrus flavors and savory shrimp in under 30 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 300g pasta of choice
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ยผ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ยผ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and garlic. Sautรฉ until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon zest. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
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