Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through the flavors of Italy with these 18 creamy and mouth-watering shrimp pasta recipes! Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a quick and easy dinner solution, this collection has got you covered. From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon garlic to spicy and bold options like arrabbiata and cajun, there’s something for everyone in this delicious lineup.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a simple yet flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, garlic butter sauce, and tender linguine pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup linguine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Toss cooked linguine with garlic butter sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of Tuscany, featuring a creamy sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
5. Stir in heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and creamy sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Penne
This Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Penne recipe combines the bold flavors of Italy with the spiciness of arrabbiata sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious shrimp and pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in arrabbiata sauce and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic, perfectly balanced with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, shrimp mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and light meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Fresh shrimp, garlic, and parsley come together in a buttery sauce served over delicate angel hair pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces angel hair pasta
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half, about 1 minute.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp in the skillet. Toss with sauce and serve immediately. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Fettuccine
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich fettuccine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with shrimp mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Shrimp Farfalle
This recipe combines the bright, herby flavors of pesto with succulent shrimp and al dente farfalle pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Stir in pesto and reserved pasta water. Simmer sauce for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Toss cooked farfalle pasta with the pesto-shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Mushroom Alfredo
Savor the rich flavors of this indulgent pasta dish, loaded with succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; whisk constantly until smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-shrimp mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Shrimp Orzo
This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the succulence of shrimp in a quick and easy one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the cooked orzo pasta and combine with the tomato-basil mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Cream Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional pasta with this Cajun-inspired recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crispy spices, and creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture; toss to coat with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Rigatoni
A classic Italian-American dish gets a spicy kick with this recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish combines succulent shrimp, rigatoni pasta, and a bold tomato sauce infused with red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine reserved pasta water with tomato sauce to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve shrimp on top of rigatoni, spooning some sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine Garlic Shrimp Linguine
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with the flavors of garlic and white wine, served over a bed of linguine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the white wine and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine the cooked linguine pasta with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Carbonara with Pancetta
This Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp, crispy pancetta, and rich eggs for a decadent meal that’s quick to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pancetta and shrimp to the bowl and stir gently to combine.
5. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are just set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and add butter, stirring until melted.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp Penne
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a penne pasta package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 roasted red peppers, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add diced roasted red peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta, roasted shrimp, and red pepper mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Spinach Tortellini
A classic Italian dish gets a seafood twist with this shrimp and spinach tortellini recipe. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or a dinner party centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups (40g) fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
5. Add white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked tortellini, shrimp mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Shrimp Marinara Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of shrimp, marinara sauce, and pasta in a single pot, making it a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With minimal cleanup and prep time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir in the cooked pasta.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Artichoke Linguine
A Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender artichoke hearts and a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a flavorful linguine pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium artichoke hearts, canned or fresh, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in artichoke hearts and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked linguine and shrimp-artichoke mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Shrimp Parmesan Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a creamy baked pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as penne or linguine)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, combine marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Stir to combine.
6. In a large baking dish, arrange pasta in an even layer. Top with shrimp mixture, then pour marinara sauce mixture over the top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 creamy shrimp pasta recipes. From classic garlic butter linguine to bold and spicy arrabbiata penne, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover creative twists on traditional dishes like scampi with angel hair and carbonara with pancetta, or try new combinations like sun-dried tomato fettuccine and roasted red pepper penne. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty lemon garlic spaghetti or a hearty one-pot marinara pasta, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.