If you crave a quick and delicious dinner, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Linguine! I’ll show you how to whip up a rich, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with any night of the week. Using simple ingredients like linguine, shrimp, and garlic, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
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
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To create creamy garlic shrimp linguine, gather these key ingredients. The linguine pasta serves as the base. Use large shrimp for a hearty bite. Fresh garlic adds a rich flavor. Heavy cream brings the creaminess that makes this dish special. Chicken broth boosts the taste even more. Sweet cherry tomatoes add color and freshness. Grated Parmesan cheese gives a salty kick. Olive oil and butter create a perfect sauté mix. Red pepper flakes add a hint of heat, if desired. Finally, salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Don’t forget fresh parsley to brighten the dish when serving.
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious meal in no time. Each one plays an important role in the final taste. I love how simple yet flavorful this dish is. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Linguine
1. Boiling pasta: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a good amount of salt. Bring the water to a rapid boil. Once boiling, add the linguine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
2. Reserving pasta water: Before draining the pasta, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This water is starchy and helps to thicken the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sautéing the Shrimp
1. Heating olive oil and butter: In a large skillet, set the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the butter melt and bubble gently.
2. Seasoning and cooking shrimp: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute until it smells great. Now, add the shrimp to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and be fully cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Creating the Cream Sauce
1. Simmering chicken broth: In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Turn the heat up slightly and bring it to a gentle simmer.
2. Adding heavy cream and thickening: Next, add 1 cup of heavy cream to the broth. Stir well and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken a little.
Combining Ingredients
1. Mixing in cherry tomatoes: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The tomatoes should start to soften and release their juices.
2. Incorporating Parmesan cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Finishing the Dish
1. Mixing cooked linguine and shrimp: Add the reserved linguine and the shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together well. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you like the consistency.
2. Adjusting seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Mix well one last time before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Creamy Sauce
To make a creamy sauce, I focus on two main things: the right ingredients and timing. I use heavy cream for rich flavor. Chicken broth adds depth too. For creaminess, make sure to simmer the broth first. This helps the flavors combine well.
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. This water holds starch from the pasta, which helps the sauce cling better. If it is too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken.
Shrimp Cooking Tips
Cook shrimp on medium heat, so they stay tender. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery quickly. Aim for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be pink and opaque when done.
To enhance flavor, season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Adding these before cooking helps the spices soak in. If you want a twist, try adding lemon juice for brightness.
Presentation Ideas
To serve, I like using large bowls. This gives a nice, warm feel. Add extra grated Parmesan on top for a cheesy touch. A sprig of fresh parsley brightens the dish.
For visual appeal, lay a few whole cherry tomatoes on top. This adds color and makes the dish look gourmet.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
Alternative pasta types
You can switch linguine for other pasta. Try spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. These options give the dish a new twist.
Different seafood options
If shrimp isn’t your favorite, use scallops or crab. You can also add mixed seafood for a fun medley. Each option brings its unique flavor.
Flavor Add-ins
Optional spices and herbs
To spice things up, add a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian herbs. Fresh basil or oregano can also enhance the dish. These add depth and freshness.
Variations with vegetables
Sneak in veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can add them when you cook the tomatoes. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color.
Dietary Modifications
Gluten-free adjustments
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. This keeps the dish tasty without gluten.
Dairy-free alternatives
To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. These swaps help everyone enjoy this dish.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, place the creamy garlic shrimp linguine in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, be sure to check the smell and look for any changes.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this dish if you want to save it for later. To do this, let the linguine cool completely. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave some space at the top since the dish may expand. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw and reheat, move the container to the fridge for a night. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warm. If the sauce seems thick, add a bit of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to bring it back to life.
FAQs
Common Questions
How to make creamy garlic shrimp linguine from scratch?
To make creamy garlic shrimp linguine, first, cook the linguine. Boil water and add salt. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain it but save some pasta water. Next, sauté minced garlic in olive oil and butter. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, then heavy cream. Stir and let it thicken. Add halved cherry tomatoes and melted Parmesan cheese. Mix in the drained linguine and shrimp. Toss well and adjust with reserved pasta water.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry with a towel before cooking. This will help them cook evenly.
What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp linguine?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for a healthy side. A glass of white wine complements the meal nicely.
How do I ensure the shrimp is tender?
To keep shrimp tender, do not overcook them. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. If they cook too long, they can become tough.
Additional Inquiries
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes. You can also use a dash of hot sauce or chopped fresh chili peppers for extra heat. Adjust to your taste for a spicy kick.
What are some suitable side dishes?
Good sides for creamy garlic shrimp linguine include garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or roasted asparagus. You can also serve it with a light tomato salad for a refreshing contrast.
How do I reheat leftover linguine?
To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying. Stir until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
In this post, I covered how to make creamy garlic shrimp linguine. We explored the key ingredients like linguine, shrimp, and cheese. I gave you steps on cooking pasta, sautéing shrimp, and creating the sauce. I also shared tips for perfecting the dish, including storage and variations.
For your next meal, don’t hesitate to try this simple and tasty recipe. You’ll enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!
