This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a tasty treat! The plump shrimp swim in a spicy cream sauce, and the sun-dried tomatoes add a nice twist. Yum!
I love how the flavors come together in this dish. It’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight, and really impresses if you have guests over. Enjoy it with some garlic bread for a real feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti works best for this recipe because they hold the sauce nicely. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use brown rice pasta or any gluten-free variety you like.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect here for that meaty bite. If shrimp isn’t your thing, you could swap in chicken or even some hearty vegetables like mushrooms for a veggie version.
Cream: Heavy cream gives this dish richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream could be tasty alternatives, though they might slightly change the flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These offer a lovely tang. If you can’t find them, fresh cherry tomatoes can add a fresh taste, just sauté them a bit longer to soften them.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky because they cook fast! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding olive oil. This helps the shrimp sear quickly, keeping them juicy.
- Cook shrimp just until they’re pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Once done, take them off the heat and set aside to prevent further cooking.
This method ensures they stay tender and flavorful in the final dish!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Cream Sauce?
A creamy sauce can make or break a dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with medium heat and don’t let the cream boil vigorously, or it can separate.
- Stir in the cheese gradually, and ensure it fully melts into the sauce for a smooth texture.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add your reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it’s perfect.
This will give you a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta!
Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spicy Cream Sauce and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), sliced
- 1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Finish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes to get a scrumptious meal on the table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Before draining the pasta, be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them! Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Flavorful Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, then add the butter, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from browning. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen! Next, add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and mix them in.
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually until it melts and combines into a smooth sauce. If at any point the sauce feels too thick, just add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and drizzle in the lemon juice. Toss everything together so the shrimp are well coated in that creamy, spicy sauce. Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing gently until the pasta is beautifully coated with the sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit more heat. Serve it up hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spicy Cream Sauce and Sun-Dried Tomatoes! It’s a fantastic dish that brings joy to any table!
FAQ for Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spicy Cream Sauce and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The easiest way to do this is by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leaving them in the fridge overnight. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving is fine too, but stir every 30 seconds for even warming.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, you can increase the crushed red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or even add a diced fresh chili along with the garlic. Just remember to adjust based on your spice tolerance to keep the pasta enjoyable!
What Can I Serve This Pasta With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the creamy sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, also complements the flavors beautifully!
