Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines zesty lemon, the bold flavors of garlic, and succulent shrimp all coated in a creamy sauce, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a must-try. The combination of the bright citrus notes, buttery richness, and tender shrimp creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough to make at home. Follow this recipe to prepare an unforgettable dinner in just under 30 minutes! Keep reading to learn how to create this delightful dish from start to finish.

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What is Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an irresistible pasta dish that highlights fresh shrimp sautéed with garlic, tossed in a luscious creamy sauce flavored with lemon juice and zest. This recipe balances rich creaminess with the bright acidity of lemon, while the garlic adds a bold, savory punch. It's perfect for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or whenever you’re in the mood for something comforting yet refreshing.

Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Before we get started, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure you’re fully prepared to make this incredible pasta dish. Here's what you’ll need:

• Shrimp (peeled, deveined): 1 pound (medium or large shrimp work best)
• Pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine): 12 oz
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking the shrimp)
• Butter: 3 tablespoons
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Lemon Zest: From 1 large lemon
• Lemon Juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Chicken or Seafood Broth: ½ cup (optional, for thinning the sauce)
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
• Lemon Slices: For garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

Whether you’re working with different ingredients or want to modify the dish to suit your preferences, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to try:

• Shrimp: If you don’t have shrimp on hand, you can substitute it with scallops, lobster, or even chicken for a different protein.
• Pasta: Feel free to use any type of pasta you like—linguine, spaghetti, penne, or even a gluten-free option.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add veggies like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. You can also add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Lemon: If you want a less intense citrus flavor, reduce the amount of lemon zest or juice. You can also substitute lime for a different twist.
• Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free variation, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Don’t worry—each step is straightforward, and you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time!

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later if needed.

1. Cook the Shrimp:

• While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

1. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

• In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant (but not browned).
• Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the lemon and garlic infuse for about 30 seconds.

1. Create the Creamy Base:

• Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
• If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of chicken or seafood broth, or reserved pasta water, to loosen it up.

1. Add Parmesan and Shrimp:

• Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat the shrimp in the creamy lemon garlic sauce. Let everything simmer together for another minute or two, so the flavors meld.

1. Combine with Pasta:

• Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

1. Final Seasoning:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if needed.

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

Cooking this dish is simple when broken down into easy steps:

1. Step 1: Cook your pasta until al dente and set aside.
2. Step 2: Sauté the shrimp until pink and cooked through, then remove from the skillet.
3. Step 3: Create a lemon garlic sauce with butter, garlic, lemon zest, and juice.
4. Step 4: Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, letting it thicken.
5. Step 5: Toss the shrimp and pasta into the sauce, combining everything evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery, overcooked shrimp. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn easily, which would give the dish a bitter taste. Cook it on medium heat and stir frequently to prevent it from browning too much.
• Curdling the Cream: Simmer the cream gently—don’t let the heat get too high, or the cream may curdle.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to presenting your Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a few simple touches can take it from good to gourmet. Here are some presentation ideas:

• Serve in a Shallow Bowl: Pasta dishes look elegant when served in wide, shallow bowls. This allows the sauce to spread evenly and creates a beautiful visual.
• Garnish with Lemon Slices: Add a few thin slices of lemon on top for a fresh, vibrant look.
• Top with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a nice pop of green and enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Add Extra Parmesan: Serve with a small bowl of freshly grated Parmesan on the side for those who love an extra cheesy touch.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This pasta is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can serve it with sides to complement the flavors:

• With a Light Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs nicely with the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans to add more vegetables to your meal.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you’re looking to make a great impression, here are some additional presentation ideas:

• Twirl the Pasta: Use tongs to twirl the pasta into neat nests on each plate, then top with shrimp and sauce for a sophisticated look.
• Lemon Wedges on the Side: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so diners can squeeze extra fresh lemon juice over their pasta.
• Sprinkle of Parmesan and Pepper: Just before serving, give each plate a final sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of black pepper.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, lemons, and garlic will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest: The zest adds an intense citrus flavor that balances the richness of the cream.
• Save Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water is a lifesaver for thinning out sauces without diluting the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the sauce is best served fresh, you can cook the shrimp and make the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
A: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream and shrimp, which can become rubbery when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option or use coconut cream for

a dairy-free version.

Q: Can I use cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, but only add cooked shrimp to the sauce at the very end to warm them through. Overcooking will make the shrimp tough.

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a surefire way to impress your dinner guests or elevate your weeknight dinner game. With fresh shrimp, zesty lemon, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is both luxurious and comforting. Follow the step-by-step instructions, add your own twist with substitutions or variations, and enjoy this flavorful meal! Whether you're cooking for two or a crowd, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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