Garlic Shrimp Linguine Delight Recipe

Scrumptious Garlic Shrimp Linguine Delight Recipe Ideas

Succulent garlic shrimp linguine brings Mediterranean flavors dancing across your palate with irresistible charm.

Delicate pasta strands intertwine with plump, tender seafood in a mesmerizing culinary performance.

Intense aromatic herbs and silky sauce create a symphony of rich, complex tastes that tantalize your senses.

Fresh ingredients combine seamlessly, promising an elegant dining experience that feels both sophisticated and comforting.

Imagine a dish that whispers of coastal kitchens and passionate cooking traditions.

Each forkful promises a delightful journey through vibrant, harmonious flavors that celebrate simple, quality ingredients.

You cannot resist the allure of this classic, soul-satisfying meal that turns an ordinary evening into a gourmet celebration.

FAQs for Garlic Shrimp Linguine

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice sear.

  • How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. Overcooking makes them tough and chewy.

  • What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

  • How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or use cajun seasoning when cooking the shrimp to increase the heat level to your preference.

Garlic Shrimp Linguine That Packs Flavor

  • This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy home cooks craving gourmet flavors without complex techniques.
  • The luxurious sauce combines rich heavy cream, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic garlic, creating a velvety coating that clings beautifully to tender linguine and succulent shrimp.
  • By using the same skillet for cooking shrimp and creating the sauce, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor development through strategic pan deglazing and ingredient layering.
  • The flexible seasoning options like Old Bay, smoked paprika, or cajun allow home chefs to personalize the dish's flavor profile, making it adaptable to individual taste preferences and spice levels.

Ingredients for Shrimp Linguine with Garlic

Pasta Base:
  • Linguine Pasta: Provides the perfect foundation for this creamy seafood dish, best when cooked al dente.
Protein:
  • Shrimp, Raw: Tender seafood that brings a sweet and delicate flavor to the recipe, select fresh or good-quality frozen shrimp.
Seasoning for Shrimp:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of shrimp.
  • Old Bay Seasoning, Smoked Paprika, Cajun Seasoning: Adds depth and complexity to the shrimp, choose based on personal preference.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Butter, Olive Oil: Creates a rich base for cooking and building flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious and smooth texture to the sauce.
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and signature flavor to the dish, fresh garlic recommended.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty element that melts beautifully into the sauce.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Brings a fresh, bright finish to the dish, adds color and light herbal note.

Steps to Cook Creamy Shrimp Linguine

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and sprinkle in a generous handful of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the linguine and cook according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy cooking water. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Grab a spacious skillet and warm it over medium heat. Drop in a pat of butter and a splash of olive oil. Once the butter melts and starts to shimmer, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season the shrimp with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Smoked paprika

Flip the shrimp after about 45 seconds. Cook until they turn a beautiful pink color and curl slightly. Transfer the perfectly cooked shrimp to a clean plate.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, toss in the remaining butter. Sprinkle in finely chopped garlic and let it dance around for about 30 seconds until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely. Gradually add some reserved pasta water to create a silky, luxurious sauce. Let it simmer and thicken for a minute.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Slide the cooked linguine into the skillet, tossing and turning until every strand is luxuriously coated with the creamy sauce. Gently place the seared shrimp back into the pan, warming them through. For a final touch of freshness, scatter chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and steaming.

Tips to Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

  • Select Perfect Pasta: Choose high-quality linguine and cook it exactly al dente for the best texture, ensuring it's slightly firm when bitten.
  • Master Shrimp Timing: Cook shrimp quickly over medium heat, removing them the moment they turn pink to prevent rubbery, tough texture.
  • Control Sauce Consistency: Add reserved pasta water gradually to create a silky, smooth sauce that perfectly clings to the linguine without becoming too thick or thin.
  • Boost Flavor Layers: Toast garlic briefly to release its aromatic oils and prevent burning, which helps develop a deeper, richer taste profile in the sauce.
  • Garnish Wisely: Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving to add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy sauce and enhance the dish's visual appeal.

Storing and Reheating Shrimp Linguine

  • Refrigerate: Transfer cooled shrimp linguine to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream to restore sauce consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  • Best Consumption: Enjoy reheated pasta within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture. Shrimp can become rubbery if overheated, so watch carefully during reheating process.

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Pasta

  • Uncork a Crisp White Wine Companion: Pair this garlic shrimp linguine with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, which cuts through the creamy sauce and complements the delicate shrimp flavor with its bright, citrusy notes.
  • Craft a Zesty Side Salad Partner: Whip up a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, adding a peppery contrast and refreshing acidity that balances the rich, creamy pasta dish.
  • Match with Crusty Bread Sidekick: Serve warm, crusty sourdough or rustic Italian bread to soak up the luxurious garlic parmesan sauce, providing a perfect textural counterpoint to the tender shrimp and linguine.
  • Select a Sparkling Water Refresher: Choose a fizzy mineral water with a slice of lemon to cleanse the palate between bites, cutting through the dish's richness and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Fun Swaps and Additions to Try

  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Replace Old Bay seasoning with dried oregano, thyme, and basil for a classic Mediterranean flavor profile. Add sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives for extra authenticity.
  • Spicy Cajun Challenge: Amp up the heat by using cayenne pepper and doubled cajun seasoning. Include diced bell peppers and green onions for a Louisiana-style kick.
  • Light Lemon Seafood Version: Reduce heavy cream and substitute with white wine and fresh lemon juice. Incorporate lemon zest and swap parsley for fresh dill to create a brighter, lighter sauce.
  • Creamy Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or seared scallops for a versatile protein option. Keep the garlic cream sauce consistent for continuity of flavor.
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Garlic Shrimp Linguine Delight Recipe

Garlic Shrimp Linguine Delight Recipe


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4.6 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic shrimp linguine delight dances with Mediterranean flavors, blending tender prawns and al dente pasta in a rich, aromatic embrace. Creamy garlic sauce and fresh herbs invite you to savor this irresistible culinary journey through coastal comfort.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Seafood:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp, frozen, peeled, and deveined
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) linguine pasta

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (optional), smoked paprika, or cajun
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Dairy and Finishing Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
  • ½ cup (40 grams) parmesan, grated
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and generously salt it. Submerge linguine and cook until perfectly tender with a slight bite, following package guidance. Carefully extract and preserve one cup of starchy cooking liquid before draining pasta completely.
  2. Melt butter and olive oil in a spacious skillet over moderate heat. Introduce shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a zesty spice blend like Old Bay or smoked paprika. Quickly sear each side until they transform into a vibrant pink hue, ensuring they remain succulent and avoiding overcooking. Transfer protein to a separate plate.
  3. Without cleaning the skillet, reduce heat and introduce minced garlic. Gently toast until aromatic and golden, releasing its intense flavor. Stream heavy cream into the pan, skillfully lifting caramelized remnants from the bottom. Incorporate grated parmesan, stirring until smoothly melted and creating a luxurious sauce.
  4. Gradually incorporate reserved pasta water, adjusting sauce consistency to create a silky texture. Allow mixture to simmer briefly, developing deeper flavors.
  5. Introduce cooked linguine into the creamy sauce, tossing meticulously to ensure each strand becomes thoroughly coated. Gently reintroduce seared shrimp, warming them through without additional cooking.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately while the dish remains piping hot and gloriously inviting.

Notes

  • Elevate your pasta game with this luxurious garlic shrimp linguine that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes.
  • Perfectly cooked shrimp demands precise timing; remove them from heat the moment they turn pink to prevent rubbery texture and maintain tender, succulent bites.
  • Reserve pasta water is liquid gold in this recipe, helping create a silky, clingy sauce that beautifully coats every strand of linguine without being too heavy.
  • Fresh parsley isn’t just a garnish but adds a bright, herbal note that cuts through the rich, creamy sauce and brings vibrant freshness to the dish.
  • Choose high-quality Parmesan cheese and grate it fresh for maximum flavor complexity and smooth sauce integration.
  • Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or Old Bay to personalize the shrimp’s flavor profile and make this recipe uniquely yours.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 502
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 608 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 163 mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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