Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine. This dish combines juicy shrimp with a silky sauce, creating a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Join me as we explore every step to make this savory delight in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in and cook something special!
Ingredients
Full list of ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Zest of 1 lemon
Ingredient notes and substitutions
You can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine or spaghetti. If you prefer a lighter dish, swap heavy cream for half-and-half. For a vegan option, replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and use plant-based cream. If you don’t have fresh parsley, try basil or chives for a different flavor. You can also replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Tips for selecting fresh shrimp
When choosing shrimp, look for those that smell fresh and clean, not fishy. The shells should be shiny and firm. If possible, buy wild-caught shrimp for better flavor and sustainability. The shrimp should be pink if cooked, and if they are raw, they should be gray and translucent. Always check the sell-by date to ensure freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water. Once it boils, add 8 ounces of linguine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of that pasta water for later.
Preparing the shrimp
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. Once the butter is hot, add 1 pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want them to turn pink and opaque. After that, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Creating the garlic butter sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt completely. Then, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds. You want to smell the garlic, but don’t burn it! Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well. Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce. Let this simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce a bit.
Combining all ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Add the drained linguine to the sauce as well. Toss everything gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time. You want a nice, creamy consistency. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and the zest of 1 lemon. Mix until the cheese melts in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Tips & Tricks
How to avoid overcooking shrimp
To keep shrimp tender, watch the cooking time closely. Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a pink color and opaque look. If you see white edges, it’s time to stop cooking. Remove shrimp from the heat immediately. This keeps them juicy and soft.
Best practices for a creamy sauce
For a smooth sauce, start with warm butter and garlic. Stir in heavy cream gently. Let it simmer, but don’t boil. Add Parmesan cheese slowly, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water. This makes the sauce silkier and helps it cling to the pasta.
Serving suggestions for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine
Serve this dish hot for the best taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest for freshness. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread. A glass of white wine complements the meal nicely. Enjoy this dish with family or friends for a special dinner.
Variations
Alternative pasta types
You can use other pasta for this dish. Spaghetti or fettuccine work great. Gluten-free options include rice or chickpea pasta. They all pair well with the creamy sauce.
Adding vegetables or proteins
You can add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. They bring color and nutrients. For extra protein, consider chicken or scallops. Just cook them the same way as the shrimp.
Lower-calorie versions
To make a lighter dish, try using whole wheat pasta. You can also swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or cashew cream. This way, you keep the flavor but cut calories.
Storage Info
How to store leftovers
After you enjoy your creamy garlic butter shrimp linguine, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing it. This helps keep the flavors fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you know when to eat it.
Reheating tips
To reheat your leftovers, I recommend using the stovetop. Place the shrimp linguine in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir often until it warms through. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy.
Freezing guidelines
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the dish. Place the cooled linguine in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above. Note that the texture might change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be great!
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will still give you a rich taste. If you want a lighter option, try using coconut milk. It adds a nice flavor. You can also mix milk and butter. Use 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of melted butter.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options that taste similar. Check the label to ensure it fits your diet. You can also use zucchini noodles for a low-carb choice. They add a fresh taste and texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them cook evenly. Pat them dry before adding to the pan. This will help them sear nicely.
What to serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine?
This dish pairs well with a light salad. A simple mixed greens salad works great. You can also serve garlic bread on the side for extra flavor. If you want a veggie, steamed broccoli or asparagus complements the dish nicely. Enjoy your meal!
In this post, we explored how to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine. We covered the key ingredients, tips for fresh shrimp, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tricks to avoid overcooking shrimp and how to achieve a creamy sauce. You learned about variations and storage tips for leftovers.
This dish is flexible and can adapt to your taste. With a few simple swaps, you can make it fit your needs. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious meal!
