Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious pasta dish that will leave your family or guests asking for more? This creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta is the perfect blend of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich creaminess, balanced by the delicate flavors of tender shrimp. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations that will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

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What Is Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta is an indulgent yet easy-to-make pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp, a tangy lemon-garlic sauce, and a luscious creamy base, all tossed with your favorite pasta. The combination of flavors is a true crowd-pleaser: the brightness of the lemon, the richness of the cream, and the savory punch from garlic pair beautifully with the sweet, delicate shrimp. This dish is versatile enough to work as a casual family meal or a sophisticated dinner-party entrée.

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Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Before diving into the cooking process, let's first cover the essential ingredients you'll need to create this tasty dish. These ingredients are easy to find and bring layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe truly shine.

• Pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work best): 12 oz
• Shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined): 1 lb
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic (minced): 4 cloves
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): ½ cup
• Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat): ½ teaspoon
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): 2 tablespoons
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• White wine (optional, for deglazing the pan): ¼ cup

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Substitutions and Variations

Not all kitchens are stocked the same, and dietary preferences or restrictions might call for substitutions. Here's how you can adapt this creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta recipe to suit your needs:

• Shrimp alternatives: You can swap out shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a plant-based option. For a vegetarian version, sauté mushrooms or zucchini as a meat substitute.
• Pasta: While long pasta like spaghetti or linguine is traditional, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-free options: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter, lactose-free dish. Nutritional yeast can also replace Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
• Low-carb version: Substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
• Add veggies: Add a handful of spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers to make the dish more colorful and nutrient-dense.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let's break down the cooking process so that you can achieve a perfect creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta every time. This recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

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

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry using paper towels and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, and add the remaining tablespoon of butter and olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant. If using white wine, add it now to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
4. Create the Creamy Base: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the lemon juice and zest, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, then add the pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
6. Finish with Parmesan and Herbs: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Finally, sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Keep a close eye on them and remove from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
2. Curdling the cream: Adding lemon juice to the cream too early or over high heat can cause curdling. Make sure to add it once the cream has warmed up, and keep the heat on medium.
3. Undercooking or overcooking pasta: Pasta should be cooked to al dente, which means firm to the bite. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will cook slightly more when tossed in the sauce.
4. Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This is a key element for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining the pasta!

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How you present your creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few tips for making this dish look as good as it tastes:

• Use a large serving bowl: Toss the pasta in a large, shallow serving bowl, allowing the shrimp to sit on top for a more elegant presentation.
• Garnish generously: Add fresh parsley, lemon slices, and extra grated Parmesan on top to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Serve with bread: A side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad makes a great accompaniment to this pasta.

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How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings, from casual weeknight dinners to fancy dinner parties. Serve it in individual bowls for a cozy, intimate meal, or family-style on a large platter to encourage sharing. Pair the pasta with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the citrus and garlic flavors in the dish.

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Presentation Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Rustic style: Toss the pasta and shrimp in a large wooden bowl for a more rustic, homestyle look. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and parsley.
• Restaurant plating: For a more refined presentation, twirl the pasta into small nests using a pair of tongs, placing shrimp on top of each nest. Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan.
• Colorful accents: Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or even edible flowers can give the dish an artistic, vibrant touch.

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Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, parsley, and garlic make a huge difference in flavor, so avoid substitutes like bottled lemon juice or dried herbs when possible.
• Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly. For a creamy, luxurious sauce, opt for freshly grated Parmesan.
• Don’t skimp on shrimp: Ensure you're using large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• Balance the acidity: If the sauce tastes too tart from the lemon, stir in an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or a splash of cream to balance the flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare this dish fresh, as reheating can make the shrimp rubbery. However, you can prep the shrimp and make the sauce in advance, then toss everything together when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the pasta and overcook the shrimp.

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Conclusion

Creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta is an irresistible dish that combines simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal at home. Its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this pasta dish is guaranteed to become a favorite. Give it a try, and don't forget to play around with the variations and tips to make it your own!

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