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Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot dinner featuring plump shrimp, creamy lemon garlic sauce, and tender pasta. This comforting yet bright dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed if frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 45 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti or linguine (can substitute gluten-free pasta)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. If frozen, thaw shrimp in cold water for about 10 minutes, then pat dry. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter over medium heat in a large deep skillet or wide sauté pan. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. Pour chicken broth into the pan and bring to a simmer. Add dry pasta, pushing it down gently so mostly submerged. Cover with lid and cook 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Once pasta is tender, reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
  6. Return shrimp to the pan and add grated Parmesan. Stir gently until cheese melts and shrimp are warmed through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, stir gently, and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep an eye on pasta cooking time as it varies by brand. Add extra broth or water if liquid evaporates too quickly. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Reserve some pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp pasta, creamy lemon garlic pasta, one-pot dinner, quick shrimp recipe, easy pasta dinner, weeknight meal