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Creating the perfect cream sauce is crucial for your creamy garlic shrimp pasta. The right consistency not only enhances the dish's flavor but also ensures that your pasta and shrimp are perfectly coated without being too watery or too thick.

30-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a dish that perfectly marries succulent shrimp with al dente pasta in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to romantic date nights. With fresh parsley and lemon for a zesty touch, each bite promises pure satisfaction. Explore this simple yet elegant recipe that seafood and pasta lovers will adore, bringing a taste of restaurant-quality dining to your table.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) fettuccine or spaghetti

1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

        Combine and Toss: Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce to coat evenly. Add the cooked shrimp, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing everything until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

          Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Complement the dish with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings