This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is creamy, a little spicy, and packed with flavor! The sun-dried tomato sauce adds a delicious twist to the classic pasta dish that everyone will love.
Honestly, who can resist shrimp swimming in a rich sauce? I could eat this every week and still look forward to it! Pair it with a side salad, and you’ve got a perfect meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using fettuccine or linguine for their lovely texture that holds the sauce well. If you need gluten-free options, rice noodles or zucchini noodles can be great substitutes.
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp are ideal in this dish, but frozen shrimp work just as well. Just make sure they’re thawed and dried before cooking! If you avoid seafood, try grilled chicken or mushrooms for a hearty substitute.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These offer a rich and tangy flavor. If you can’t find them packed in oil, you can use dehydrated sun-dried tomatoes. Just soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before using.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option!
How Can I Best Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is essential to avoid rubbery texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot when you add the shrimp for great searing.
- Cook them in one layer to ensure even cooking; don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.
Remove them promptly from the skillet to prevent overcooking. They will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, making them just right!
Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spicy Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Shrimp:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Flavor Boosters:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta cooking water
- 2 tbsp olive oil (use oil from sun-dried tomatoes if available)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or parsley)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and then about 20 minutes making the creamy sauce and finishing everything together. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining it. Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Prepare the Aromatic Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and the onion is translucent.
4. Mix in the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red chili flakes into the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth or your reserved pasta water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. After that, stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Once the sauce has thickened, add in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently with the sauce to coat them nicely. Let everything heat through for about 1-2 minutes.
8. Toss in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and combine it with the creamy shrimp sauce until every strand is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
9. Final Touches:
Stir in the fresh basil (or parsley) and if you like, a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it all up.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your rich, spicy, and creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta that’s bursting with flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little butter. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well, though it will add a slightly different flavor.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like it hot, you can increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also finish the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce or serve it with sliced fresh jalapeños for added heat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Shrimp?
Yes, you can! Grilled chicken, cooked sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms make great alternatives. Adjust cooking times as needed for the different proteins to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
