Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick yet sophisticated dinner that bursts with flavor? This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is exactly what you need. The zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and creamy sauce complement the succulent shrimp perfectly, all tossed with your favorite pasta for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or feeding the family, this dish is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to make this easy but elegant meal at home!

this Recipe

---

What is Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delicious pasta dish made with tender shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil, then combined with a luxurious cream sauce infused with lemon juice and zest. The bright citrus notes from the lemon perfectly balance the richness of the cream, while garlic adds depth to the flavor. With the added freshness of herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is a delightful marriage of savory, tangy, and creamy elements. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

---

Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

To make this flavorful and creamy shrimp pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined, medium to large size)
• Pasta (12 oz, any variety like linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Olive oil (2 tbsp, for cooking the shrimp)
• Garlic cloves (3-4 cloves, minced)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• Butter (2 tbsp, for added richness)
• Chicken or vegetable broth (½ cup)
• Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, freshly grated)
• Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, citrusy, and garlic-packed sauce that beautifully complements the shrimp and pasta.

---

Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta (Continued)

If you’d like to add even more flavor or accommodate dietary preferences, here are some optional ingredients and substitutes:

• White wine (¼ cup, as a substitute for broth or for added complexity)
• Spinach (2 cups, fresh, wilted into the sauce for extra greens)
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved, for a burst of sweetness and color)
• Gluten-free pasta (substitute for regular pasta if needed)
• Whole wheat pasta (for a healthier option)
• Mascarpone or cream cheese (as a substitute for heavy cream, if you prefer a lighter or slightly tangier sauce)

These optional ingredients allow you to make this recipe your own, adjusting flavors and textures to your taste.

---

Substitutions and Variations

• Shrimp: You can substitute shrimp with scallops, lobster, or even cooked chicken for a different protein. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus.
• Pasta: You can use any pasta you have on hand. Long pastas like linguine or fettuccine are classic for this recipe, but short pastas like penne or farfalle work well, too.
• Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or even use Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier sauce.
• Lemon: Meyer lemons can be used instead of regular lemons for a sweeter, less acidic taste. Lime can also be used if you’re feeling adventurous, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
• Herbs: Instead of parsley, you can use fresh basil, dill, or cilantro to give the dish a different twist.

These substitutions and variations allow for flexibility and creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
   While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce
   Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine, if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Then, reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken.
5. Add the Shrimp and Pasta
   Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce. Add the drained pasta, and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy lemon garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Finish and Serve
   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan, if desired.

---

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

1. Cook the pasta until al dente, ensuring it retains some bite for the perfect texture.
2. Sear the shrimp quickly in olive oil until just cooked through, keeping them tender and juicy.
3. Sauté garlic in butter to release its aroma, creating the flavorful base of the sauce.
4. Simmer the cream and lemon juice to form a velvety sauce with bright citrus notes.
5. Toss everything together, finishing with Parmesan cheese for a creamy, tangy, and savory dish.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so aim for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. Make sure to sauté it on medium heat and stir constantly.
• Using too much lemon juice: While lemon juice adds brightness, too much can overpower the dish. Start with the juice of one lemon and adjust to taste.
• Forgetting to save pasta water: This starchy water is great for thinning out the sauce without losing any flavor. Always reserve some before draining the pasta.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate your dish and make it look even more appetizing. Here are a few tips for serving your Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

1. Serve in a shallow bowl to let the sauce pool slightly around the pasta, making it look more elegant.
2. Garnish with extra lemon zest for a pop of color and added citrus aroma.
3. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright and fresh finishing touch.
4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese or a few shrimp set aside for decoration, making the dish visually appealing.

---

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Serve this pasta hot, right after tossing everything together. It pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, or a glass of crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach.

---

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Garnish with whole shrimp: Keep a few shrimp whole with their tails on and place them on top of the plated pasta for a restaurant-quality presentation.
• Add lemon slices: Garnish the dish with thin lemon slices or wedges to give it a fresh, vibrant look.
• Serve in a large pasta dish family-style, topped with a generous handful of parsley and Parmesan.

---

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp if possible, as they have better flavor and texture than frozen shrimp. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water or extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the pasta and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed to suit your preference.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for the best sear.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.

Q: Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Scallops, chicken, or even tofu can be used as a substitute for shrimp.

---

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of rich, creamy flavors with a bright citrus twist. It's simple to prepare, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party or special occasion. With easy-to-find ingredients and a foolproof method, this dish will quickly become one of your go-to pasta recipes. Try it today and enjoy the delightful combination of tangy lemon, fragrant garlic, and succulent shrimp!

Print