Name: Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; ½ cup reserved pasta water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 garlic cloves; 1 yellow onion; 8 oz brown mushrooms; 1 lb fresh shrimp; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp mild paprika; salt; 8 oz cream cheese; 2 cups milk; ½ cup parmesan cheese; ½ cup light Mozzarella cheese; salt; 2 tbsp parsley

Dive into a delightful culinary experience with this creamy shrimp pasta. It's a perfect blend of succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will leave you craving for more. Ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is both comforting and luxurious.

Photos of Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you're heading to the supermarket, be aware of a few ingredients that may not be commonly found in your pantry. Fresh shrimp provides the best flavor, so look for it in the seafood section. Brown mushrooms add a deeper, earthier taste compared to white mushrooms. Also, cream cheese and light mozzarella cheese might be items you don't usually purchase, but they are crucial for the creamy texture of the sauce.

Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Linguine pasta: A type of pasta that is slightly thicker than spaghetti, perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the ingredients, bringing out their rich flavors.

Garlic cloves: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor to the dish.

Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.

Brown mushrooms: Adds an earthy, umami taste to the pasta.

Fresh shrimp: The star protein of the dish, bringing a delicate seafood flavor.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.

Mild paprika: Contributes a subtle smokiness and color.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Cream cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy base for the sauce.

Milk: Helps to create a smooth and creamy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce.

Light mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a mild, creamy flavor.

Parsley: Used as a fresh garnish to add a pop of color and flavor.

One reader, Carmen Santoro says:

This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is a game-changer! The blend of garlic, mushrooms, and shrimp in a rich, cheesy sauce is simply divine. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious, it's perfect for a cozy dinner. Highly recommend!

Carmen Santoro

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Shrimp Pasta

How to cook pasta: Follow the package instructions to cook pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse. How to sauté garlic and onions: Heat olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic and chopped onions, and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. How to fry mushrooms: Add mushrooms to the pan and cook while occasionally stirring until they are browned. How to cook shrimp: Sauté shrimp in a pan with garlic until they just begin to change color, then add spices and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. How to make a creamy sauce: Combine cream cheese and milk in a pan, bring to a gentle simmer while stirring, then add cheeses and continue to stir until melted and smooth.

How To Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta

This recipe for shrimp pasta promises a creamy dish without going overboard on the heavy cream. All the flavor comes from the rich garlic parmesan sauce.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozlinguine pasta,dry weight
½cupreserved pasta water
2tbspolive oil,divided
4garlic cloves,minced, divided
1yellow onion,chopped
8ozbrown mushrooms,sliced
1lbfresh shrimp,prawns, without shells, washed and deveined
½tspred pepper flakes,crushed, adjust to suit tastes
1tspmild paprika,or smokey
salt,to season
8ozcream cheese,at room temperature, low-fat or fat-free are fine to use
2cupsmilk
½cupParmesan cheese,grated
½cuplight mozzarella cheese,shredded
salt,to season, if desired
2tbspparsley,fresh chopped, to garnish

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water; drain and rinse, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water. Set it aside for later.
While pasta is boiling, heat a large frying pan/skillet on medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil to the pan and fry half of the garlic for about 30 seconds; add the onions, and continue sautéing until soft.
Add the mushrooms and fry while occasionally stirring, until the mushrooms have browned. Stir through 1 to 2 tablespoons of water and cook them for 1 more minute.
Transfer mushrooms to a plate and set it aside (keep any liquid leftover in the pan).
To the same pan, add the remaining oil. Saute remaining garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until they just begin to change colour. Add the pepper flakes, paprika and salt.
Cook while occasionally stirring for a further 1 to 2 minutes to combine all the flavours in the pan, Add the mushrooms to the pan, stirring them through the flavours in the pan.
Transfer the shrimp/mushroom mixture to the same plate the mushrooms were on.
Add the cream cheese and milk to the same pan and bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally, while breaking up the cream cheese.
Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes, then add the cheeses. Once the cheeses have melted through, taste test and season with a little salt.
Add the shrimp/mushroom mix along with the pasta into the creamy sauce, stirring everything through for a further 2 minutes on low heat. Add the reserved pasta water – ¼ cup at a time – only if needed or until reaching desired consistency.
Garnish with parsley and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 621.51kcal
Fat: 30.37g
Saturated Fat: 15.21g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.01g
Carbohydrates: 53.97g
Fiber: 2.63g
Sugar: 8.78g
Protein: 32.99g
Cholesterol: 172.67mg
Sodium: 933.86mg
Calcium: 471.43mg
Potassium: 623.81mg
Iron: 1.63mg
Vitamin A: 300.52µg
Vitamin C: 3.87mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Shrimp Pasta

When sautéing the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they brown properly and develop a rich, deep flavor. Cook them in batches if necessary.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop garlic, onions, and mushrooms in advance to streamline cooking.

Use pre-cooked shrimp: Save time by using pre-cooked shrimp; just heat them through in the sauce.

One-pot method: Cook the pasta in the same pan after sautéing the vegetables to reduce cleanup.

Microwave cream cheese: Soften cream cheese in the microwave for easier incorporation into the sauce.

Pre-grated cheese: Use pre-grated parmesan and mozzarella to save time on shredding.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

linguine pasta - Substitute with fettuccine: Both are long, flat noodles that hold sauce well.
reserved pasta water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Adds flavor and helps to thin the sauce.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Provides a similar garlic flavor; use 1/8 tsp per clove.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
brown mushrooms - Substitute with white button mushrooms: Similar texture and flavor profile.
fresh shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Similar protein content and can be cooked in a similar manner.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Adds a similar level of heat; use sparingly.
mild paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor along with the mild heat.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami flavor.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Provides creaminess with a tangy flavor and is lower in fat.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Lower in calories and provides a similar consistency.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Similar hard cheese with a slightly saltier and sharper flavor.
light mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Melts well and has a mild flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a similar salty flavor with a slightly different mineral content.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor, though with a slightly different taste profile.

Best Way to Present This Creamy Pasta Dish

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy shrimp pasta in a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl to allow the sauce to spread out and create an elegant appearance. Use a small pasta nest in the center to highlight the shrimp and mushrooms.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped parsley and a light sprinkle of parmesan cheese around the rim of the plate. Add a few microgreens or edible flowers for a touch of color and sophistication.
Highlight key ingredients: Place a few perfectly cooked shrimp on top of the pasta nest to showcase their quality. Ensure the mushrooms are visible and evenly distributed for visual appeal.
Create height and layers: Stack the pasta in a way that creates height on the plate. Use a ring mold if necessary to keep the pasta in a neat, cylindrical shape. This adds a professional touch and makes the dish look more refined.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle some of the creamy sauce over the top of the shrimp and pasta, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures every bite is flavorful.
Add a touch of spice: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color and a hint of heat. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish visually striking.
Use high-quality tableware: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate with a wide rim to frame the pasta. The simplicity of the plate will make the colors and textures of the dish stand out.
Finish with a flourish: Just before serving, add a final touch of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Large pot: Used for boiling the linguine pasta in salted water.
Colander: Essential for draining and rinsing the cooked pasta.
Large frying pan: Needed for sautéing the garlic, onions, mushrooms, and shrimp.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients while they cook in the pan.
Plate: Used to temporarily hold the sautéed mushrooms and shrimp.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the milk, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring the olive oil, red pepper flakes, and paprika.
Knife: Required for chopping the garlic and onion.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the garlic and onion.
Whisk: Helps in breaking up the cream cheese and combining it with the milk to create a smooth sauce.
Tongs: Handy for mixing the pasta with the creamy sauce and shrimp/mushroom mixture.
Serving spoon: Used for serving the creamy shrimp pasta onto plates.
Grater: Needed if you are grating fresh parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
Measuring jug: Useful for reserving and measuring the pasta water.

How To Store and Freeze Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Allow the creamy shrimp pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the pasta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen creamy shrimp pasta will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer it to a saucepan and warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.
Note: The texture of the shrimp may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the dish will still be delicious.
If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, it's best to cook the pasta slightly al dente so that it doesn't become too soft when reheated.
You can also freeze the sauce separately from the pasta and shrimp. When ready to serve, thaw the sauce, reheat it, and then toss it with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Reheat the creamy shrimp pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently to prevent the pasta from sticking and the sauce from burning. Add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
For individual portions, place the desired amount of creamy shrimp pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of milk or cream per serving to maintain the sauce's consistency. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have an oven-safe dish, you can reheat the creamy shrimp pasta in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from drying out, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
For a quick and easy method, use a steamer basket to reheat the creamy shrimp pasta. Place the pasta in the steamer basket and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. This method helps maintain the pasta's moisture and prevents the sauce from drying out.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the creamy shrimp pasta using this precise temperature control method. Place the pasta in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag with the air removed. Submerge the bag in a water bath set to 150°F (65°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. This method ensures even heating and maintains the pasta's original texture.

Random Fact About Creamy Shrimp Pasta

A random fact about this creamy shrimp pasta recipe is that the combination of cream cheese and milk creates a rich and velvety sauce, which is further enhanced by the umami flavor of parmesan and mozzarella cheese.

Is Making Creamy Shrimp Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. With ingredients like shrimp, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese, the dish offers a luxurious taste without breaking the bank. The use of mushrooms and onions adds depth and flavor, making it a hearty meal. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost: $25-$30 for a household of 4 people.

Is Creamy Shrimp Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy shrimp pasta recipe, while delicious, has some elements that could be considered unhealthy:

The dish is high in fat due to the use of cream cheese, parmesan, and mozzarella. These ingredients contribute to the creamy texture but also add saturated fat.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of pasta, which is high in carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes if consumed in large quantities.
Shrimp, while a good source of protein, is also relatively high in cholesterol.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients:

Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in nutrients like vitamin D, potassium, and antioxidants.
Garlic and onions have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cream cheese and use low-fat milk instead of regular milk to decrease the overall fat content.
Swap out half of the pasta for spiralized zucchini or other low-carb vegetable noodles to increase the fiber content and reduce the carbohydrate load.
Use a smaller amount of high-quality, flavorful cheese like aged parmesan to maintain the taste while reducing the quantity of cheese needed.
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding more mushrooms or other nutrient-dense options like spinach or bell peppers.
Opt for whole wheat pasta to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of pasta and increase the amount of shrimp to make the dish more protein-focused.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of garlic, onions, and mushrooms creates a rich base, while the shrimp adds a succulent touch. The cream cheese and milk provide a luscious, velvety sauce, perfectly complemented by the parmesan and mozzarella. The red pepper flakes and paprika add a subtle kick, balancing the creaminess. The reserved pasta water ensures the sauce reaches the ideal consistency. Garnishing with parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish. Overall, this dish is a harmonious symphony of ingredients, making it a satisfying and elegant meal.

Enhance Your Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Golden Crunch Delight: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, each slice infused with garlic and butter. This crispy, golden delight is the perfect companion to your creamy shrimp pasta, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Caesar Salad: Crisp Caesar Symphony: A symphony of romaine lettuce, parmesan, and croutons, all drizzled with a tangy Caesar dressing. This refreshing salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich, creamy pasta, balancing the meal with its vibrant flavors.

Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus Elegance: Tender asparagus spears, roasted to perfection with a hint of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. The subtle, earthy flavors of this elegant side dish complement the creamy shrimp pasta beautifully, adding a touch of sophistication to your plate.

Tomato Basil Soup: Velvety Tomato Bliss: A bowl of velvety tomato soup enriched with fresh basil and a hint of cream. This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with the pasta, offering a warm, soothing contrast to the dish's creamy texture.

Tiramisu: Heavenly Tiramisu Finale: End your meal on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder create a dessert that's both light and indulgent, perfectly rounding off your creamy shrimp pasta experience.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Indulge in the rich flavors of garlic and butter with succulent shrimp tossed in a zesty lemon and white wine sauce. Serve over a bed of angel hair pasta for a delightful meal.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Savor the classic comfort of chicken in a luscious alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan, and a hint of nutmeg. Perfectly paired with fettuccine for a timeless dish.

Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon: Experience the fresh and vibrant taste of salmon baked in a lemon garlic butter sauce. This dish is complemented by a side of roasted asparagus and baby potatoes for a wholesome meal.

Mushroom Risotto: Delight in the creamy texture of arborio rice cooked to perfection with mushrooms, white wine, and parmesan cheese. This risotto is a comforting and elegant dish that will impress any guest.

Seafood Paella: Transport yourself to Spain with this vibrant paella packed with shrimp, mussels, clams, and chorizo. Infused with saffron and smoked paprika, this dish is a feast for the senses.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Creamy Pasta Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and finely chopped herbs. The filling is enhanced with a touch of garlic and olive oil, then baked until golden and crispy. The result is a bite-sized burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled white wine. These little gems are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an ideal choice for entertaining guests.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The combination of the crispy bread and the fresh, tangy topping creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Serve this alongside a light Prosecco to elevate the experience and set the tone for a memorable meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a luscious Tiramisu that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream. The cocoa powder dusted on top adds a touch of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness. This classic Italian dessert is both elegant and comforting, making it an ideal choice to follow your creamy shrimp pasta. Serve chilled for the best experience, and consider adding a hint of coffee liqueur for an extra kick.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Experience the decadence of a Chocolate Lava Cake, where a warm, molten chocolate center oozes out as you cut into the cake. The contrast between the gooey interior and the soft, spongy exterior creates a delightful texture. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the dessert. This indulgent treat is sure to impress your guests and provide a satisfying end to your meal.

Why trust this Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe:

This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. With the perfect blend of garlic, onions, and mushrooms, it offers a rich and flavorful experience. The addition of cream cheese and parmesan creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the linguine. The shrimp adds a delightful protein boost, making it a well-rounded meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this delightful dish.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne would work great with this creamy shrimp sauce.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of cream cheese. It will still give you a rich and creamy sauce, just with a slightly different texture.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp cooks pretty quickly. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the pasta fresh. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of mushrooms?

If you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out or substitute them with another vegetable like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.