December 25, 2025

Creamy One-Pot Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Easy Perfect Dinner in 30 Minutes

Name: Creamy One-Pot Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Juice of half a lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional); Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Ready In

Servings

Difficulty

Let me tell you, the scent of garlic sizzling in butter with succulent shrimp swirling in a creamy sauce is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I whipped up this creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta, I was instantly hooked. It was one of those rare cooking moments where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. Honestly, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, seafood dinners were a bit of a treat, but this recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl — pure, nostalgic comfort with a modern twist.

I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy weekend, trying to recreate a fancy dish without all the fuss. My family couldn’t stop sneaking shrimp off the pan (and I can’t really blame them). It’s dangerously easy yet looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a last-minute weeknight dinner or a sweet treat to brighten up your Pinterest recipe board, this creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta recipe fits the bill every single time.

After testing it multiple times (in the name of research, of course), it’s become a staple for family gatherings and quick solo dinners alike. You’re going to want to bookmark this one — trust me.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta recipe has seriously won me over, and here’s why it might become your new go-to too:

Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without the wait.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen pantry.
Perfect for Dinner: Great for cozy dinners with family or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the creamy, garlicky flavor and tender shrimp.
Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy sauce clings to the pasta just right, while the garlic and shrimp deliver a punch of flavor that feels indulgent but not heavy.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s the magic of cooking everything in one pot — less mess, more flavor. The shrimp get perfectly tender because they’re cooked gently in the sauce, and the pasta soaks up all that garlicky creaminess. Plus, I use a splash of white wine (optional but highly recommended) to add a subtle depth that’s just chef’s kiss. This recipe isn’t just good — it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and think, “Yep, this is comfort food done right.”

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, and substitutions are easy if you’re missing something.

For the pasta and sauce:

8 oz (225 g) linguine or spaghetti (I prefer linguine for the sauce cling)
2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth (adds richness)
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (for that creamy texture)
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese (adds savory depth)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
4 cloves garlic, minced (the star of the show!)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adds a gentle kick)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the shrimp:

1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off, your call!)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky flavor)
Juice of half a lemon (brightens the whole dish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and freshness)

Optional but recommended:

1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine (adds complexity, can swap with extra broth)
Cherry tomatoes, halved (for a pop of color and sweetness)

Pro tip: I usually grab wild-caught shrimp from my local market for the best flavor, but frozen works perfectly if thawed properly. Also, using freshly grated Parmesan makes a world of difference here.

Equipment Needed

Large deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid (12-inch works great for one-pot dishes)
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula (for gentle stirring)
Sharp knife and cutting board (for prepping garlic and shrimp)
Measuring cups and spoons (accuracy matters for creamy sauces!)
Colander or strainer (if you prefer to rinse shrimp)

If you don’t have a large skillet, a wide saucepan works too — just make sure it’s big enough to hold all the pasta and shrimp comfortably. I’ve tried cast iron, nonstick, and stainless steel pans; each brings a slightly different heat distribution, but nonstick tends to make cleanup easier here. Also, keeping your garlic finely minced really helps it dissolve into the sauce rather than overpower it, so a good knife is your friend!

Preparation Method

creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta preparation steps

Prep your shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss them with smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside while you prep the rest — this helps the flavor soak in.
Sauté the garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat in your large skillet. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden — watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine, then add the uncooked linguine, pressing it gently into the liquid so it’s mostly submerged.
Simmer the pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the liquid and cream into a velvety sauce — if it looks too dry before pasta is tender, add a splash more broth.
Cook the shrimp: Once the pasta is nearly done, nestle the seasoned shrimp into the sauce on top of the pasta. Cover again and cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, or they’ll get rubbery.
Finish with cheese and lemon: Remove the lid, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and just garlicky enough to make you swoon.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and, if you like, halved cherry tomatoes for a bright burst of color. Serve immediately — this dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Note: If the sauce thickens too much while resting, stir in a splash of warm broth or cream to bring it back to perfection.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

There are a few tricks that make this creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta recipe shine every time. First, don’t rush the garlic sauté. Letting it cook gently in butter and oil releases that mellow, sweet flavor without a harsh bite. Also, drying your shrimp before seasoning helps them sear evenly instead of steaming.

Timing is key — adding shrimp too early can turn them rubbery, so wait until the pasta is almost done. When stirring the pasta, use a gentle touch to avoid breaking noodles. I learned the hard way that constant stirring can turn pasta mushy!

If you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes add just the right kick without overpowering the creamy base. And here’s a personal lesson: skipping the lemon juice at the end makes the dish feel flat. That bright acidity cuts through the richness like a charm.

Multitasking tip: prep your garlic and shrimp while the broth heats up. The whole process flows smoothly when you’re organized. Lastly, use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-grated often lacks that melty, silky texture.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the things I love about this creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta recipe is how easy it is to tweak:

Vegetarian version: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a hearty, meat-free option.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
Spice it up: Add a splash of hot sauce or use smoked paprika plus cayenne for a smoky, spicy kick.
Dairy-free adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Seasonal flair: Toss in fresh peas or baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

I once tried adding sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean vibe — totally delicious and colorful. Feel free to get creative; this recipe is forgiving and welcomes your personal flair.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta is best served piping hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé complements the shrimp beautifully.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce silky. Avoid microwaving directly unless you add liquid, or the pasta can dry out.

Flavors deepen a bit after resting, so if you make it ahead, consider stirring in fresh herbs and lemon juice again before serving. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream, so best to enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Per serving, this creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta provides roughly 450-500 calories, with a good balance of protein from shrimp and fats from cream and butter. Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein and rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.

The garlic adds antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, while Parmesan offers calcium for bones. Using whole grain or legume-based pasta can bump up fiber content if desired. If you’re watching carbs, swapping traditional pasta for zucchini noodles keeps this dish light without sacrificing flavor.

Allergy note: contains shellfish and dairy. Easily adaptable for dairy-free diets as mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

This creamy one-pot garlic shrimp pasta recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a treat but comes together in a flash. It’s simple enough to whip up on any weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve when friends drop by unexpectedly. I love how the garlic and shrimp play off each other in the luscious sauce — it’s truly a plate full of comfort and joy.

Go ahead, make it your own by tweaking ingredients or adding your favorite veggies. I promise this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. If you try it, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any fun twists you add. Share your experience in the comments below or tag me on social media — let’s keep spreading the love for easy, delicious food!

FAQs About Creamy One-Pot Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra water in the sauce.

Is it okay to skip the white wine?

Yes, you can replace it with extra broth or a splash of lemon juice. The wine adds depth but isn’t essential.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while simmering and ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid. Adding enough broth helps prevent sticking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated within 2 days.

What’s the best way to get a creamy sauce without it splitting?

Cook on low heat once you add the cream, and avoid boiling vigorously. Stir gently and add cheese at the end for smoothness.

Pin This Recipe!