Some dinners just seem to carry a story with them. Creamy shrimp pasta is one of those dishes that turns an ordinary evening into a little celebration of comfort and flavor. When the day has been long and the kitchen feels like the heart of the home, this dish settles in like a warm hug.

I remember the first time I made this creamy shrimp pasta—it was one of those chilly evenings when the rain tapped gently on the windows, and the house smelled like garlic and butter. The shrimp sizzled in the pan, releasing a scent that teased the senses, while the cream sauce thickened slowly, promising richness in every bite. Sitting down to that plate, I felt wrapped in something simple yet indulgent, each forkful a reminder of the joy found in small, thoughtful moments.

The sauce is luxuriously creamy without being too heavy, making every bite satisfying but not overwhelming.
Succulent shrimp add a fresh, delicate flavor that complements the richness of the cream.
It comes together quickly, perfect for nights when you want something special without hours in the kitchen.
The mix of garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes delivers just the right amount of warmth and depth.
Fresh parsley brightens the dish, giving a subtle herbal note that balances the richness.

If you’re worried about juggling a busy weeknight, this recipe is a gentle reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and a little attention, you’ll have dinner that feels both effortless and indulgent.

Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4

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Description

A rich and flavorful creamy shrimp pasta made with succulent shrimp, garlic, and a luscious cream sauce tossed with tender pasta. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

12 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Pour in the white wine and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy shrimp sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! While fettuccine works beautifully, feel free to swap in linguine, spaghetti, or even penne depending on what you have on hand.

What if I don’t have white wine? You can substitute with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice to maintain the flavor depth without the alcohol.

Is this dish good for leftovers? Yes, but it’s best eaten within a couple of days as the shrimp and sauce texture can change. Reheat gently to keep it creamy.

Can I make it spicier? Definitely! Increase the red pepper flakes to your liking for a subtle kick.

This creamy shrimp pasta makes for a comforting dinner that feels like a reward after any day. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with the inviting aroma of garlic and butter while you savor every bite.