Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti: The base of this dish, the pasta, should be cooked al dente to provide the perfect texture to complement the creamy sauce and tender shrimp.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Butter is essential for creating the rich, savory base of the sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps to sauté the shrimp and garlic without burning the butter.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp are the star of this dish, offering a sweet, tender bite that pairs perfectly with the garlic sauce.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its distinctive aroma and flavor, providing depth and richness.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat to the dish, balancing the richness of the cream and butter.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Chicken broth helps to create a flavorful sauce that coats the pasta without being too heavy.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and indulgent, complementing the garlic and shrimp.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in all the other ingredients.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal freshness to the dish.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Lemon juice brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing zing.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the mixture is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it is fragrant and slightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pasta and toss again to distribute the flavors.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish. Serve the Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery. They are done when they turn pink and opaque.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic in a jar doesn’t have the same depth and can be slightly bitter.
• Control the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the red pepper flakes. For those who love spice, feel free to increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Balance the Sauce: The sauce should be creamy but not too thick. If it becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance it by serving it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this dish, complementing the flavors of the garlic and lemon.

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an irresistible dish that combines the richness of butter and cream with the freshness of lemon and parsley. The tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta make it a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire way to bring delicious flavors to your table. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, garlicky pasta, and savor the compliments from your family and friends.