Creamy Garlic Shrimp Linguine Delicious Dinner Recipe

Craving a meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress? This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Linguine is your answer! Loaded with juicy shrimp, garlic, and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner. In this easy-to-follow recipe, I’ll guide you through each step. You’ll enjoy creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also looks great on your table! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Full List of Ingredients
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. You’ll need linguine pasta, which gives a nice base. The shrimp should be large, peeled, and deveined for easy cooking. Garlic adds that lovely aroma and flavor. Heavy cream brings the creaminess, while chicken broth adds depth.
Parmesan cheese gives a savory touch. Olive oil and butter enhance richness and flavor. Red pepper flakes add a hint of spice, but you can adjust it. Finally, don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning, and fresh parsley for that vibrant finish.
Having all these ingredients ready makes cooking smooth and fun. A well-prepared kitchen sets you up for success!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Linguine
First, take a large pot and fill it with water. Add a good amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of linguine pasta. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, which means it should still be firm. Once done, drain the pasta. Make sure to save ½ cup of that pasta water for later.
Sautéing the Shrimp
Next, grab a spacious skillet. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 lb of large shrimp. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You know they are done when they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, place the shrimp on a plate and set them aside.
Making the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat a bit. Add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not burnt. Then, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the flavors blend and the liquid to reduce a bit.
Combining Ingredients
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Gradually add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep mixing until it all combines and the sauce thickens to your liking.
Then, add the cooked linguine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help you achieve the perfect creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Finally, taste the dish. Adjust the seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the linguine hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Shrimp
– How to know when shrimp are cooked: Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side.
– Avoiding overcooking: Remove shrimp from the heat as soon as they change color. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
Making the Sauce Extra Creamy
– Tips for adjusting thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir it in slowly to reach your desired creaminess.
– Alternative ingredients for creaminess: You can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk.
Enhancing Flavor
– Suggestions for additional seasonings: Consider adding garlic powder, lemon zest, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
– How to adjust spice levels: To control heat, add more or less red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for a different kick.
Variations
Seafood Alternatives
You can switch shrimp for other seafood. Scallops or crab are great choices. They add unique flavors and textures. For a fun twist, try lobster. Just remember, cooking times may vary. Adjust your cooking to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Vegetable Additions
Adding vegetables can enhance the dish. You might try spinach, peas, or bell peppers. These add color and vitamins. To include greens, simply sauté them with the garlic. This makes them tender and flavorful.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options that taste similar. For the sauce, check the labels on the cream and broth. Some might have gluten. Adjust according to your taste and dietary needs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy garlic shrimp linguine fresh, use airtight containers. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. The shrimp and sauce stay tasty, but the pasta may soften a bit.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet. Stir it gently over low heat until warm. If using a microwave, cover it loosely and heat in short bursts. This helps avoid sauce separation. Stir in between to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them first. To thaw shrimp, place them in the fridge overnight. If you need them fast, put them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Change the water halfway through. After thawing, pat the shrimp dry. This helps them sear better in the pan.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Linguine?
You can serve this dish with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
– Garlic bread: A crunchy side that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
– Green salad: A fresh salad adds a nice balance.
– Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus add color and nutrition.
– Roasted potatoes: Crispy potatoes make a hearty addition.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten up Creamy Garlic Shrimp Linguine, try these tips:
– Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for fewer calories.
– Swap out some cheese for nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without fat.
– Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to bulk up the meal.
– Use less oil or butter when cooking the shrimp.
These changes keep the flavor while cutting down on calories and fat.
This article covered how to make delicious creamy garlic shrimp linguine. We explored all the essential ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for perfect shrimp. You learned to create a rich garlic cream sauce and how to combine everything for a fantastic meal.
Feel free to adjust flavors and try alternative ingredients to make this dish your own. No matter your choice, enjoy your cooking and make this a meal to remember!
