Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The shrimp is sautéed with garlic and then tossed in a rich and creamy sauce made with Parmesan cheese, butter, and herbs. This pasta dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
INGREDIENTS
- 8 ounces pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
INSTRUCTIONS
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined with the butter.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta immediately. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
TIPS
- Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables such as sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. However, keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference. If you love garlic, you can add more cloves for a stronger flavor.
- Use fresh, good-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Grate it yourself rather than using pre-grated cheese for superior taste.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet while simmering the sauce.
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving
- Protein: Around 25-30 grams per serving
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams per serving
- Fat: Around 15-20 grams per serving
- Fiber: Approximately 2-4 grams per serving
