This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal that brings together the comforting flavors of garlic, butter, and cheese with the fresh taste of shrimp. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something impressive yet simple to make.
Spaghetti serves as the hearty base of the dish, soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully. Opt for a good-quality pasta for the best texture.
Shrimp brings a delicious seafood element. Make sure they're peeled and deveined to save time and effort.
Butter adds richness and helps to infuse the garlic flavor into the dish. It’s the foundation of our sauce.
Garlic, with its aromatic qualities, is essential for flavoring the dish. Use fresh garlic for the best results.
Heavy cream creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta.
Parmesan cheese gives a savory, nutty finish that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and cream.
Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to balance out the creaminess.
Salt and pepper are crucial for seasoning the shrimp and the overall dish.
Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
Lemon zest brightens up the whole dish with a burst of citrus aroma.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. A loaf of crusty bread is perfect to mop up any leftover sauce on your plate. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the flavors wonderfully.
Start by cooking your spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions until it's al dente, then drain and set aside. You want it ready to toss into the sauce as soon as it's done.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as it's melted, add the garlic. Sauté it for about a minute, just until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma filling your kitchen.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook fast, so keep an eye on them so they don't overcook and become rubbery.
Lower the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into a smooth sauce. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely.
Now, toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to mix everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
Finally, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and parsley. Give it all a good toss, making sure those flavors are evenly distributed.
Serve it up immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley for that finishing touch.
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