Creamy shrimp pasta with a rich, savory sauce that feels special yet comforting, perfect for cozy winter dinners at home.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 25 min
Total: 40 min
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili flakes, optional
Instructions
Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and reserve a small cup of pasta water.
Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet and cook the shrimp briefly on both sides until just pink, then remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook gently until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine, then let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir in the grated cheese, paprika, and chili flakes, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
Return the shrimp to the pan, add the cooked pasta, and toss gently. Use a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce, then remove from heat and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts (approx)
Calories: 560 | Protein: 34 g | Carbs: 44 g | Fat: 28 g
Quick Facts
• one-pan sauce
• cold weather comfort
• family approved
• budget friendly
• freezer friendly (sauce only)
Tips
Do not overcook the shrimp, they should be just pink and tender to stay juicy.
Simmer the sauce gently to avoid separation and keep it creamy.
Grate the cheese finely so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Variations
Extra Creamy Winter Pasta
Add a small splash of cream at the end and let the pasta rest briefly in the sauce. This version becomes thicker and more luxurious, ideal for colder evenings. For another rich and creamy meal that feels indulgent, the Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese offers a similar cozy depth with a seasonal twist.
Garlic Forward Shrimp Pasta
Increase the garlic slightly and sauté it gently without browning. The flavor becomes deeper and more aromatic without overpowering the shrimp. If you’re a garlic lover, the French Dip Stuffed Biscuits bring that same savory vibe in a comforting baked form.
Spicy Comfort Version
Add extra chili flakes and a pinch of smoked paprika to bring more warmth and gentle heat, turning the dish into a bold winter pasta. For a bold and warming dinner built on spice and richness, the Firehouse Chili and Cornbread Casserole delivers a satisfying kick with every bite.