Name: Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g Large Argentinian Shrimp, peeled and dried; 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; 4 Garlic Cloves, minced; 200 ml Tomato Sauce; 500 ml Heavy Cream; Fresh Parsley, chopped; 300 g Linguine Pasta; Salt & Pepper, to taste; Parmesan (optional), grated; Fresh Basil (optional); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Red Paprika Powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Powder; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; ½ Juice from Lemon; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Red Paprika Powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Powder; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 23 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for the kind of comforting, luxurious pasta that will make your friends think you’ve secretly trained at an Italian trattoria, this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic) is your new best friend. Picture plump Argentinian shrimp, a dreamy tomato-cream sauce, and a touch of garlic all tangled up with al dente linguine—pure bliss on a plate. This is the dish I’m always asked for when someone wants something “fancy but unfussy” and every time, it delivers incredible flavor (with impressively little effort).

Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what goes into this delicious weeknight masterpiece. Simple, honest ingredients are the secret here—each one plays a role, whether it’s adding silkiness, punchy flavor, freshness, or that oh-so-irresistible color you see on restaurant plates.

Large Argentinian Shrimp (400 g): Their sweetness and meaty texture make every bite totally satisfying—just make sure they’re peeled and patted dry for the best sear!
Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): Melted into the pan, it forms the backbone of a rich, smooth sauce.
Garlic Cloves (4, minced): The heart and soul of this whole recipe; you’ll notice that gorgeous aroma the second it hits the pan.
Tomato Sauce (200 ml): Brings a warm, gently tangy backdrop to balance the cream and seafood.
Heavy Cream (500 ml): This ensures the sauce is as creamy and comforting as you hope it will be.
Fresh Parsley (chopped): A handful of parsley doesn’t just look bright—it lifts the whole dish with a burst of freshness.
Linguine Pasta (300 g): Flat, tender, and the perfect vehicle for a creamy sauce to cling to.
Salt & Pepper (to taste): Adjusted for flavor, these season the dish just right.
Parmesan (grated, optional): Who ever said no to a little extra cheesiness?
Fresh Basil (optional): Brings beautiful color and herbaceousness if you feel a little fancy.
Seasonings:
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Deepens the garlic flavor throughout every bite.
- Red Paprika Powder (1 tsp): Adds warmth and a pop of color.
- Smoked Paprika Powder (1 tsp): A gentle smokiness that makes the sauce next-level.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp): For that classic Mediterranean aroma.
Shrimp Marinade:
- Juice from ½ Lemon: Wakes up all the flavors and tenderizes the shrimp.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps the seasonings cling and adds fruitiness.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Boosts that savory base from the inside out.
- Red Paprika Powder (1 tsp): More color and flavor for the marinade magic.
- Smoked Paprika Powder (1 tsp): Gives the shrimp subtle smoky undertones.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Ties everything together with an herby touch.

How to Make Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic)

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by giving your shrimp a flavor boost! In a bowl, toss your peeled and dried shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, red and smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Let this quick marinade infuse the shrimp for a few minutes while you prep the other ingredients. This is my secret to shrimp that’s juicy, well-seasoned, and anything but bland—every bite shines.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a swirl of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn plump and pink. Don’t walk away—shrimp cook lightning-fast! Scoop them onto a plate to rest while you move on to the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it; those flavor bits are gold!), melt your butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté until your kitchen smells amazing and the garlic is golden and fragrant. Next, pour in the tomato sauce and heavy cream, stirring everything together. The mix turns instantly luscious, with the tomato adding depth and the cream smoothing everything out.

Step 4: Simmer with the Shrimp

Slide your seared shrimp back into the pan and let everything gently simmer together for about 10 minutes. This is when the Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic) truly comes to life—the sauce thickens, the shrimp soak up all that dreamy flavor, and the color turns beautifully rosy. Taste and season with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper.

Step 5: Cook the Linguine and Finish the Dish

Meanwhile, cook your linguine until delightfully al dente—don’t forget to salt the water well. Before you drain, scoop out half a cup of the pasta water and set aside. Now, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce and shrimp. Drizzle in that pasta water, tossing vigorously until everything’s glossy and perfectly coated. Toss in fresh parsley, and if desired, a sprinkle of parmesan and basil.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Serve your Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic) straight away while it’s silky and steaming. The aroma is irresistible and the first forkful? Pure weeknight luxury.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic)

Garnishes

I love going the extra mile with a final dusting of freshly grated parmesan, a handful of chopped parsley, and a few torn basil leaves for fragrance. A squeeze of lemon on top brightens the whole dish, and if you’re feeling bold, a pinch of red chili flakes never hurts! These finishing touches add pops of color and tons of flavor.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette is the perfect fresh counterpoint. You also can’t go wrong with warm, crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce (trust me, you won’t want a drop to go to waste). And of course, a chilled glass of white wine rounds off the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a restaurant-worthy vibe, twirl each portion with tongs before plating, then nestle a few shrimp on top for a dramatic look. Serve on a beautiful platter family-style, or spoon into shallow bowls for cozy comfort. If you’re making this for a crowd, you can even set up a pasta bar with bowls of herbs, cheese, and lemon for guests to garnish themselves!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic) surprisingly tasty the next day, though the texture of the shrimp is best right after cooking.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this dish—the creamy sauce can separate and shrimp can become rubbery after thawing. If you do freeze, try just freezing the sauce; cook fresh shrimp and pasta when you’re ready to serve for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave works in a pinch, but skip the high heat to avoid overcooked shrimp. Always stir frequently and heat just until everything is hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your shrimp are fully thawed and dried on paper towels to avoid watering down the marinade and sauce. Frozen shrimp are super convenient and work beautifully in this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic).

What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?

You can swap in half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. Keep in mind, full-fat cream guarantees maximum silkiness!

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms all add a lovely boost of texture and nutrition. Stir these in just before serving to keep their color and crunch.

Is this recipe gluten free?

The core recipe isn’t gluten free due to the linguine, but it’s easy to swap in your favorite gluten free pasta. The sauce and shrimp are naturally free of gluten, so everyone can enjoy!

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready, reheat gently, cook your shrimp fresh, and combine with cooked linguine. This keeps everything tasting freshly made, every time.

Final Thoughts

If there ever was a crowd-pleasing pasta to keep on repeat, it’s this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic). Treat yourself and your friends to a plateful—you’ll be amazed how quickly it disappears! Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to for celebrations and cozy weeknights alike.