When weeknight dinners need a major lift, this Creamy Shrimp Linguine sails to the rescue with a velvet-smooth sauce and perfectly tender shrimp wrapped around silky noodles. It’s a dish that feels impossibly luxe, but comes together in a flash—one taste and you’ll see why it’s hard not to fall in love! With bright hints of lemon and a gentle punch from red pepper, this pasta brings restaurant vibes home, all with one pan and a handful of honest ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need an overstuffed pantry to make magic happen. Each simple ingredient in this Creamy Shrimp Linguine adds its own flair, from richness to color to that irresistible seafood aroma. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
- 12 oz linguine: This classic noodle shape is perfect for catching all that creamy sauce in every twirl.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Juicy shrimp make each bite pop with sweet seafood flavor—always opt for fresh or well-frozen shrimp for the best results.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the shrimp get that lovely golden edge when seared.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): For a deep, aromatic base—go fresh, and grate or mince for maximum punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The backbone of your luscious sauce, giving every bite its signature silkiness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, salty depth—grate it fresh for melt-in sauce magic.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a lively zing that brightens up the entire dish.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that brings the flavors to life (skip if you prefer it mild).
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For extra creaminess and a glossy finish to your sauce and shrimp.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential final touch to lift every single flavor note.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, colorful finish that’s as easy on the eyes as it is delicious.
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Linguine
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your linguine and cook until just al dente (follow the package instructions for timing, usually 9–11 minutes). You want the noodles to hold their own in the creamy sauce, so don’t overcook! Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of that starchy cooking water just in case the sauce needs loosening later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous pink and lightly curl. Don’t overcook—they’ll finish in the sauce! Transfer the shrimp out of the skillet to a plate and set aside for now.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the butter and swirl until just melted. Toss in your minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until the kitchen smells irresistible and the garlic turns golden (careful, it can burn fast!). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer—this is when things get dreamy.
Step 4: Season and Thicken
Sprinkle in that freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let everything bubble gently together for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens to a luxurious texture. Season with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper—taste and adjust if needed.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add the cooked linguine and the tender shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything with tongs so the noodles get fully coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce and the shrimp are evenly distributed. Sometimes, a splash of pasta water loosens things up perfectly if it seems too thick. Heat through for another couple of minutes, then take off the heat and get ready to garnish!
How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Linguine
Garnishes
Nothing brings life and color to your Creamy Shrimp Linguine quite like a generous shower of chopped fresh parsley. Add a little extra grated Parmesan or a spritz of fresh lemon juice right before serving for a burst of flavor and an elegant finish.
Side Dishes
This pasta loves a bright counterpart—try a lemony arugula salad or simple steamed broccolini. And of course, don’t forget a basket of warm, crusty bread for sopping up every last drop of that addictive sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party wow-factor, twirl small nests of Creamy Shrimp Linguine in shallow bowls, tucking sautéed shrimp artfully on top. Or serve family-style in a large platter, sprinkled with extra herbs, for a rustic, shareable centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer your Creamy Shrimp Linguine to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of making. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days and makes a great next-day lunch.
Freezing
Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate in the freezer, but you can absolutely freeze this dish if needed. Cool completely, then freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
The best way to revive Creamy Shrimp Linguine is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir until warmed through—this keeps the sauce silky and prevents the shrimp from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Fettuccine or spaghetti both work beautifully—just choose a noodle with some heft to cradle the creamy sauce.
Is there a dairy-free way to make Creamy Shrimp Linguine?
You can try swapping in full-fat coconut milk for the cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious!
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Shrimp cook very quickly; take them out of the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque, then just warm them through with the sauce at the end.
What else can I add to this dish?
Spinach, diced sun-dried tomatoes, or even a handful of baby peas add lovely color and flavor. Let your cravings guide you!
Can I make the sauce ahead and cook the pasta/shrimp fresh?
Yes—prepare the sauce up to a day ahead, then cook your pasta and shrimp just before serving. Reheat the sauce gently and toss everything together for a fresh-tasting meal any night.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow everyone at your table—family, friends, or just yourself—give Creamy Shrimp Linguine a try. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, elegant enough for a celebration, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky, lemon-bright bite!
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Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent yet easy-to-make Creamy Shrimp Linguine that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. This dish features succulent shrimp tossed in a rich, Parmesan-laden cream sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked linguine.
Ingredients
Linguine:
- 12 oz linguine
Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Linguine: Boil linguine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink; set aside.
- Make Sauce: Sauté garlic, add cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, and spices. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Toss linguine and shrimp in sauce until heated through.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Enhance with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
