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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for Two

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A quick and comforting creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe perfect for two, ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients and a luscious sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • 12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Juice and zest of half a lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine and cook according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes for al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown or burn the garlic.
  4. Add shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  5. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine into the same skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in 3 ounces softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Gradually mix in reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to desired consistency.
  7. Stir in 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and zest. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Add drained pasta and cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat evenly in the sauce. Add more pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  9. Plate the pasta, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to get a good sear and avoid steaming. Cook garlic gently in butter to prevent bitterness. Save pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Remove shrimp promptly when pink to avoid rubberiness. Use softened cream cheese for a smooth sauce. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic shrimp pasta, quick shrimp pasta, easy dinner for two, garlic shrimp recipe, 15 minute pasta, creamy pasta sauce

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/creamy-garlic-shrimp-pasta-for-two-easy-recipe-in-15-minutes/